The Ford F-150 is one of the most sold pick-up trucks in history. This means that a lot of people have mastered or gotten used to fixing them on their own. That's why the mechanics at our shop want to share something with you. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of changing the rear brakes on your Ford F-150! Here are the steps.
#1 Gather the necessary tools and materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools and materials required for the job. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- Jack and Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- C-clamp
- Socket set
- Brake cleaner
- Brake grease
- New brake pads
- New brake rotors (if needed)
- Torque wrench
- Bungee cord or wire (to hang the caliper)
#2 Prepare your workspace
Ensure that you have ample space to work around your vehicle. Park your Ford F-150 on a level surface and engage the parking brake. It's also advisable to place wheel chocks on the front tires to prevent the truck from rolling.
#3 Lift the vehicle and remove the wheels
Using a jack, lift the rear of the vehicle until the tires are off the ground. Once lifted, secure the truck with jack stands. Now, using a lug wrench, remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels to gain access to the brakes.
#4 Remove the brake caliper
Locate the brake caliper behind the brake rotor. The caliper is held in place by bolts or pins. Remove these bolts or pins using the appropriate socket or wrench. Carefully remove the caliper and hang it using a bungee cord or wire, ensuring that it does not hang by the brake hose.
#5 Replace the brake pads
Inspect the brake pads for wear and tear. If they are worn beyond the recommended thickness, it's time to replace them. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket. Use a C-clamp to compress the caliper piston back into its housing fully. This step is necessary to make room for the new, thicker brake pads. Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.
#6 Inspect and replace the brake rotor (if necessary)
Inspect the brake rotor for any damage or excessive wear. If the rotor is deeply grooved, cracked, or worn beyond the specified limit, it's best to replace it. Remove the brake rotor by either pulling it off or removing the retaining screws (if present). If installing new rotors, ensure they are compatible with your F-150's specifications.
#7 Reassemble and test
Before reassembling, clean the caliper, bracket, and rotor using brake cleaner to remove any dirt or debris. Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the caliper bolts or pins to prevent corrosion. Carefully reattach the caliper to the bracket, ensuring it's properly aligned with the brake pads and rotor. Torque the bolts or pins to the manufacturer's recommended specifications. Repeat the process for the other side. Once both sides are complete, replace the wheels and tighten the lug nuts.
#8 Lower the vehicle and test the brakes
Carefully lower the vehicle off the jack stands using the jack. Once the vehicle is on the ground, apply the brakes a few times to ensure proper functionality. This step will help set the brake pads against the rotors.
Have an issue with the DIY project?
If you started this project at home and can't finish it, we don't blame you - it's quite a complicated job. Contact us so we can get you in the shop ASAP.