Here's a general outline. Specific steps and torque specifications will vary depending on the year and model of your F-350. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for precise instructions and torque values.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safely lifting the truck.
* Wheel Chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel Hub Socket: Often a large, deep socket. The size varies by model year.
* Impact Wrench (Highly Recommended): Makes removing the wheel hub nuts much easier. A breaker bar can be used, but it's much more strenuous.
* Caliper Piston Compression Tool: To compress the brake caliper piston.
* C-Clamp or similar: May be needed to assist with caliper piston compression.
* Sockets and Wrenches: Various sizes for caliper bolts, etc.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specifications.
* Brake Cleaner: To clean the mating surfaces.
* New Rear Rotors: Ensure you purchase the correct ones for your truck.
* Gloves and Safety Glasses: Always wear these when working on vehicles.
Steps (General Outline):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground. Use jack stands after lifting the truck with a jack – never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the truck. Remove the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: There are usually two bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. Remove these bolts and carefully support the caliper; it's still attached to the brake line. You may need to use zip ties or a bungee cord to hang it out of the way. Do not let the brake line hang freely.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use the caliper piston compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper. This is necessary to make room for the new, thicker rotor. Be careful not to damage the piston seal.
5. Remove the Rotor: Often, the rotor simply slides off the wheel studs after the caliper is removed. Sometimes there are retaining clips or screws. Consult your repair manual.
6. Clean the Hub: Thoroughly clean the wheel hub mounting surface using brake cleaner.
7. Install the New Rotor: Slide the new rotor onto the wheel studs.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Reinstall the caliper and secure it with the bolts, tightening them to the correct torque specification.
9. Bleed the Brakes (Important): After reinstalling the caliper, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove any air that might have entered the system. This is a crucial step to ensure proper braking function. Consult your repair manual for the bleeding procedure.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Mount the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack.
12. Final Check: Double-check all bolts and lug nuts are properly tightened. Test the brakes gently before driving.
Important Considerations:
* Consult your vehicle's repair manual: This is the most important step. It provides specific details, torque specifications, and diagrams tailored to your F-350 model.
* Brake fluid is corrosive: Be careful not to spill it on painted surfaces.
* Brake system is critical: If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified mechanic. A mistake in the brake system can be dangerous.
This is a simplified overview. The actual process might be slightly different depending on your truck's year and model. Always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Improperly done brake work can lead to serious injury or death.
