Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Sockets and wrenches: You'll need sockets for the lug nuts, caliper bolts, and possibly the rotor retaining bolt (if present). Wrenches may be needed for certain caliper mounting hardware.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Rotor removal tool (optional but highly recommended): Some rotors are difficult to remove without one. These tools usually have a few different sized pins for various rotors.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster, etc.): Helps loosen rusted bolts.
* Clean rags or shop towels: To clean up brake dust and oil.
* New front brake rotors: Make sure you get the correct ones for your truck.
* Anti-seize lubricant: Apply to caliper mounting bolts to prevent future seizing.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the front of the truck and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Unlock the Hubs: This is crucial. Engage the manual locking hubs. This is necessary to allow the rotor to rotate freely. Failure to do this will make removing the rotor difficult and potentially damage the hub.
4. Remove the Caliper:
* Compress the caliper piston: Use a C-clamp or caliper compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space to remove the rotor. You might need to carefully rotate the piston as you compress it. Be prepared for brake fluid to leak out; have a rag ready to absorb it. If you don't have a tool, you can sometimes use a large screwdriver and carefully push on the piston through the caliper opening. Be extremely careful to not damage the caliper piston or seal.
* Remove the caliper bolts: Locate the bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. Spray them with penetrating oil if they're stuck. Remove the bolts and carefully hang the caliper aside, making sure it's not hanging by the brake line. Use a wire or bungee cord to keep it out of the way.
5. Remove the Rotor:
* Inspect for a retaining bolt: Some 1988 F-150s have a small bolt that holds the rotor to the hub. If present, remove it.
* Remove the rotor: This is often the most challenging part. Sometimes the rotor just slides off; other times it's stuck due to rust. A rotor removal tool will greatly simplify this process. If you don't have one, you might need to carefully tap it off with a hammer and punch (protect the wheel hub from damage).
6. Clean the Hub: Thoroughly clean the hub mating surface where the rotor sits. Remove any rust or debris.
7. Install the New Rotor: Slide the new rotor onto the hub. If there's a retaining bolt, reinstall it. Make sure it sits squarely and firmly against the hub.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully mount the caliper back onto the bracket and reinstall the caliper bolts. Tighten them to the manufacturer's specifications.
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the truck from the jack stands and carefully remove the jack.
11. Torque Lug Nuts: Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is crucial for wheel safety.
12. Test Drive: Go for a short test drive to check for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Important Notes:
* Brake Fluid: If you have to open the brake system, you should bleed the brakes afterwards. This is very important to prevent air in the system from compromising braking performance.
* Manual Hubs: Remember to unlock the hubs for normal driving.
* Parts: Always use high-quality replacement parts.
* If you're uncomfortable with any part of this process, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake work is crucial for safety.
This guide provides a general overview. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific torque specifications and procedures. The presence or absence of a rotor retaining bolt and the ease of rotor removal can vary slightly depending on the specific model and condition of your truck.
