Here's a general procedure. Specific details may vary slightly depending on your exact Excursion model and brake system. Consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for the most accurate instructions and torque specifications.
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Securely jack up the Excursion and place it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheels: Remove the right rear wheel.
* Parking Brake: Ensure the parking brake is OFF.
* Cooling: If the brakes were recently used, allow them to cool completely to avoid burns.
2. Caliper Removal:
* Caliper bolts: Locate the two bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. These are usually 14mm or 15mm. Use a wrench or socket to carefully remove them.
* Caliper support: Some people like to use a bungee cord or wire to hang the caliper from the suspension. This prevents it from dangling by the brake line and stretching or damaging the line. Alternatively, you can carefully lay it on something clean. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line.
* Brake pads: The brake pads may fall out as you remove the caliper. If they don't, carefully remove them. Note their position and orientation for reassembly.
3. Rotor Removal:
* Rotor retaining screws: Some rotors are held to the wheel hub by a few screws. Locate and remove these screws (if present). If there are no screws, the rotor should simply slide off.
* Rotor removal: The rotor might be stuck to the hub due to rust or corrosion. Gently tap the rotor around its circumference using a rubber mallet or a block of wood and a hammer to help loosen it. Avoid damaging the wheel hub. If it's really stuck, you may need to use penetrating oil and let it sit for a while. A puller is sometimes necessary for stubborn rotors.
4. Reassembly:
* Clean the hub: Thoroughly clean the wheel hub mating surface to ensure a good seal with the new rotor. Remove any rust or debris.
* Install new rotor: Install the new rotor and secure it using the retaining screws (if applicable).
* Install brake pads: Reinstall the brake pads, ensuring they're correctly seated.
* Install caliper: Reinstall the caliper and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Reinstall wheel: Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Lower vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
* Brake bleeding: You may need to bleed the brakes after working on the caliper, especially if you opened the brake line.
Important Notes:
* Rust and corrosion: Rust and corrosion are common issues on older vehicles. Penetrating oil can be your best friend in this process.
* Torque specifications: Always consult a repair manual for the correct torque specifications for all bolts and nuts. Over-tightening can damage components.
* Professional help: If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your Excursion to a qualified mechanic. Brake systems are critical safety components.
This is a general guide. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2001 Ford Excursion for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improperly installed brakes can be extremely dangerous.
