Here's a general procedure. Specifics might vary slightly depending on your exact model and brake wear, but the overall process should be similar:
1. Preparation:
* Jack up the car: Securely jack up the rear of the vehicle and place it on jack stands. Chock the front wheels.
* Remove the wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car (to prevent the wheel from spinning), then remove the wheel.
2. Brake Caliper Removal:
* Locate the caliper mounting bolts: These are usually on the back of the caliper.
* Remove the caliper bolts: Use a socket wrench of the appropriate size to carefully remove the caliper mounting bolts.
* Support the caliper: Once the bolts are out, carefully support the caliper. You can use a bungee cord or wire to hang it from something nearby, preventing it from dangling on the brake line. Do not let the brake line hang freely. This can damage the line or cause the brake fluid to leak.
* Remove the caliper: Gently slide the caliper off the brake rotor.
3. Parking Brake Removal (if applicable):
* Some models have a parking brake mechanism that engages with the rotor. This may require:
* Removing the parking brake cable: There might be a retaining clip or bolt to disconnect.
* Removing the parking brake shoes: In some cases, the parking brake shoes need to be removed from the rotor before it can come off. Consult a repair manual if unsure.
4. Rotor Removal:
* Inspect the rotor: Check for any corrosion or rust that might be preventing it from sliding off the hub. Use a wire brush or penetrating oil to loosen it if needed.
* Remove the rotor: Usually, the rotor just slides off the wheel studs. It may be slightly snug, but should come off relatively easily with some gentle tapping or prying. If it's really stuck, use a rubber mallet to gently tap it off. Avoid damaging the hub.
5. Reassembly:
* Clean the hub: Clean any rust, debris, or grease from the wheel hub mating surface before installing the new rotor.
* Install the new rotor: Slide the new rotor onto the wheel studs.
* Reinstall the caliper: Carefully slide the caliper back over the new rotor and re-secure the caliper mounting bolts. Make sure they are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Reattach parking brake components (if applicable): Reinstall any parking brake components that were removed.
* Reinstall the wheel: Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Torque to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the car to the ground.
* Check brake fluid level: After reassembly, check your brake fluid level. Top it off if needed. You may need to bleed the brakes if you had to disconnect the brake lines.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1995 Ford Crown Victoria is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and other essential information.
* Tools: You'll need basic tools such as a jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, socket wrenches, possibly a wire brush, penetrating oil, a rubber mallet, and a torque wrench.
* Brake Bleeding: If you disconnect the brake lines, you'll likely need to bleed the brakes afterwards to remove air from the system. This is a crucial step to ensure proper braking performance.
If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it's always best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Brake work is critical for safety.
