Some models of the Ford F-150 have four-wheel disk brake systems. Replacement of the rear rotors is very similar to the replacement of front rotors. Rear rotors will generally have less wear, however, due to mechanical forces which place much of the braking resistance on the front axle. Periodic inspection of the brake system should include inspecting the rotor for uneven wear, grooves or noting throbbing or pulsing from the rear brakes. Rotor replacement is not always required. When sufficient metal exists, the rotor may be "turned" on a metal lathe to remove imperfections before you put them back on the vehicle.
Instructions
Remove the Rotor
- Place chocks around the front wheels of the F-150. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel or wheels. Jack the rear of the truck. Secure the truck with jack stands, for safety. Remove the lug nuts and wheels.
- Remove the caliper from the rotor. Unbolt the upper and lower caliper bolts --naccessible from the back of the caliper-- and slide the caliper off the rotor.
- Secure the caliper to the truck with the wire coat hanger. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake lines, as damage to the lines is possible.
- Inspect the lug nuts for a retaining clip. Remove the clip, if found, and discard. The retaining clip is a small metal disk which is used during manufacturing to secure the rotor to the hub during the assembly process. You do not need to replace the clip.
- Pull the rotor off the lugs. Grasp the rotor with two hands and pull directly away from the axle. If the rotor is corroded in place, spray a penetrating lubricant -- such as WD-40 -- at the point the rotor connects to the hub. Wait 15 minutes and re-attempt. If necessary, strike the rotor with the rubber mallet to loosen the corrosion. If you do not intend to re-use the rotor, you may loosen the rotor with the heavy hammer.
Replace the Rotor
- Spray the new rotor with brake parts cleaner to completely remove any oils. An oil film is commonly applied to new rotors to prevent corrosion during storage. Oil left on the rotor may severely degrade the braking ability and cause uneven wear and premature failure. Spray the brake parts and hub to remove any dirt or grime. Allow to air dry, and repeat if necessary.
- Install the new rotor. Slide the rotor over the lugs until the rotor is flush against the hub.
- Slide the caliper over the rotor. Slide the upper and lower caliper bolts into the retaining holes, and tighten.
- Clean the inside wheel well of the wheel. Any dirt or debris which keeps the wheel well from sitting flush against the rotor and hub will cause the rotor to seat unevenly. Incorrectly seated rotors will wear unevenly and cause throbbing, pulsing and poor braking ability.
- Slide the wheel over the lugs. Install and hand tighten all lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts in a star or opposite alternating pattern to evenly secure the wheel to the hub. Re-tighten the lug nuts after driving 100 miles.
