How hard is it to install new brake pads on a 97?

[MattStarr]

Hi, i tried searching for installing of brake pads, i couldnt find anything. So, are brake pads an easy install? I'm no mechanic but I just cant see paying an enormous amount of money to have someone put pads on my truck. Also, are there any threads on installing pads in a 97? I want to know how much work is involved. Any thoughts would be appreciated. --MS--

 

[BradE.]

It's not hard at all. If you have ever done disc brakes before you will have no trouble with the rears on an Explorer.

 

[MattStarr]

Nah, I have never done brakes before.......

 

[Doug]

Doing brakes on an explorer is cake. as long as you have a socket set. You can probably do all the pads in less than an hour. Also get your self a haynes or chiltons manual that will help you out as well.

 

[MattStarr]

Where can I get one of these manuals?

 

[Texplorer]

Just about any auto store.

 

[Brans Freestyle]

changing the pads is cake, you just pop out the ones already in, and put in the new ones and your done. if you have run out on the rotors, youll need to get them turned, and that turn into a real pita cause you gotta take the rotor off and everything

 

[jjue]

Changing brake pads on disc brake system is a piece of cake. I had never done brakes ever in my life when I changed mine about 1.5 years ago, and it took me about 35 minutes total including taking the tires on and off the front. The back I changed since the tires were off and the back was already on jack stands, and that was merely a 15 minute job for both sides.

 

[aldive]

By all means do it yourself. It is so simple you will be suprised as well as saving a lot of money.

 

[IgotTwo]

don't forgot rail grease and have some rope around to tie the caliper when you remove it ...so it doesn't hang down on the brake line
You'll laugh how easy it is .... after you done!
GO FOR IT!

 

[Texplorer]

How do you tell if you need new pads? Im sure I need new ones on the back but Im not sure about the front.

 

[BradE.]

Take the wheel off and look at the pad thickness.

 

[MattStarr]

What is a good thickness... or lack there of?

 

[IgotTwo]

Look at the brake pads from all angles ie each corner they could be wearing unevenly.....

????easy to miss for first timer inspector?????

 

[aldive]

If in doubt, replace; they are cheap.

 

[dogfriend]

Originally posted by MattStarr
Where can I get one of these manuals?

check out this link

Dead Link Removed

autozone.com has an online copy of the Chilton manual

For the front discs, follow the instructions for dual piston caliper (single piston is for 91-94)

 

[mattadams]

heres an article I wrote for ford truck world magazine. It's for F-150's bu the information should apply to your 97 as well.
http://www.mattstruck.com/brakes/brakes.html