New pads and rotors

[Charlie]

Well, I've been needing new ones for quite some time. I decided to go for new rotors, instead of having them turned, because I have no idea how old they are, and were warped pretty good, along with having the same consistency as an old 45.

Now, I have new ones. I've never done anything with brakes before, so I was somewhat nervous to try it myself. 2 hours and 18 minutes from purchasing pads & rotors (using time on receipt) they were installed, and test drive taken. Which I may add, I think is very good for somebody who is new at this, and only having hand tools.

It was very easy, the only hard part was the fronts, the piece that holds the pads in place the bolts were stuck good. After some PB blaster and a breaker bar, I convinced them to come loose.

I will be going back next week to be re-tightening everything...I don't want anything coming loose.

Also, if you are thinking about trying this yourself, I highly recommend it. For somebody who has never done anything with brakes before, it was very easy to do. The only tools I used were:
-2 sockets (with wrench) I don't remember what sizes, but if you have metric sockets ranging from 10mm-16mm, you'll be good.
-Breaker bar (may not be needed)
-PB Blaster (may not be needed)
-C-clamp for pistons, or equivalent. 4" or 5" should be good. Also have block of wood for even pressure on the pistons.
-Jack
-Jackstands
-Torque wrench (for removing wheel)

I'm very happy with the result, it stops much faster, and also doesn't have the "wobble" when I step on the brakes. Very smooth.

All that, and replacing all the pads and rotors cost around $200, much cheaper than taking it to a shop.

 

[5.0]

Congrats on saving the $$$ by doing it yourself. You can also use one of the old brake pads to push the pistons back in instead of a block of wood.

 

[Silver X]

Good job getting out there and doing it yourself.

I also use a 6" c-clamp and the old inner pad to compress the caliper pistons.

Removing the Explorer's rear rotors has always been the hardest part of the brake job for me. The stupid e-brake shoes always hang up and the adjuster is always seized and unable to back off.

 

[Cobraguy]

Great job!

 

[Dan Whitaker]

I've had my fronts so many times chasing front end noises I could do them in my sleep now and have the tools needed burned in my head.

 

[Charlie]

I've had my fronts so many times chasing front end noises I could do them in my sleep now and have the tools needed burned in my head.

Yeah, when I did this it makes working with front suspension stuff seem a lot easier.. Now maybe I'll finally tackle those other things I need to get done!

 

[RockAuto Ashley]

RockAuto is a great place to get parts, if you are a "do it yourselfer". Our prices tend to be quite a bit lower then most local stores, even with shipping. And if you search this forum you will find one of our discount codes.

Check us out!

www.rockauto.com

Thanks!
Ashley