Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set: You'll likely need various sizes, including those for caliper bolts and possibly the caliper slide pins.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston. A C-clamp works, but a dedicated tool is easier and safer.
* Wrench or socket for caliper slide pin bolts (if applicable): Some Rangers may require this to remove the caliper.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen any stuck bolts.
* Brake cleaner: To clean the caliper and rotor surfaces.
* New front brake pads: Make sure you get the correct ones for your specific Ranger model.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Raise the front of the vehicle using the jack and securely place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts using the lug wrench and carefully take off the wheel. Set it aside in a safe place.
3. Expose the Caliper: You should now see the brake caliper assembly clamped onto the rotor.
4. Remove the Caliper:
* Locate the caliper bolts: These are usually on the back of the caliper.
* Apply penetrating oil (if needed): If the bolts are rusty or stuck, spray them with penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes.
* Unscrew the caliper bolts: Carefully remove the caliper bolts using the appropriate socket wrench.
* Carefully remove the caliper: Support the caliper with your hand as you remove it to prevent the brake lines from stretching or breaking. You may need to gently pry it away from the rotor. Many times, you can just hang the caliper from the brake line using a wire or bungee cord, keeping the weight off the brake line.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: The new brake pads will be thicker than the old ones. You need to compress the caliper piston to create enough space for the new pads. Use the C-clamp or caliper compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper bore. Do this slowly and steadily. You may hear a slight grinding sound – this is normal. Keep pushing until you have enough clearance to easily install the new pads.
6. Inspect and Clean: Inspect the caliper slide pins (if your Ranger has them). If they're rusty or sticky, clean them with brake cleaner and lubricate them with a high-temperature brake caliper grease. Clean the caliper and rotor surfaces with brake cleaner.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Carefully insert the new brake pads into the caliper. Make sure they're seated correctly.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Reinstall the caliper onto the rotor, making sure the pads are properly aligned with the rotor. Tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque (check your owner's manual or a repair manual).
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on, and tighten the lug nuts. Don't fully tighten them yet.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the vehicle to the ground. Now fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
11. Pump the Brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads make contact with the rotors.
12. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to make sure the brakes are working properly.
Important Notes:
* Consult a Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1994 Ford Ranger is highly recommended. It will provide detailed diagrams and torque specifications for your vehicle.
* Brake Fluid: If you have to significantly compress the caliper piston and suspect your brake fluid level is low, check the master cylinder reservoir and add brake fluid as needed.
* Rotor Inspection: While you're at it, inspect your brake rotors for wear. If they're excessively worn or scored, they may need to be replaced or turned (machined).
This guide provides general instructions. Always refer to a repair manual for your specific vehicle model for detailed instructions and torque specifications. If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your Ranger to a qualified mechanic.
