Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket wrench set: Various sizes, including metric and possibly SAE, depending on your vehicle's year.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* C-clamp or caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston. A C-clamp might work, but a dedicated caliper compressor is safer and easier.
* Brake pad spreader or similar tool: May help to separate the pads from the caliper.
* Wrench or socket for caliper mounting bolts: Size will vary by year.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): Helps loosen rusted bolts.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself from grease, dirt, and potential injury.
* New brake pads: Ensure you get the correct pads for your specific F-250 model and year.
* Optional: Wire brush: To clean caliper surfaces.
* Optional: Brake cleaner: To clean caliper and rotor surfaces.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Raise the front of the truck securely using the jack and support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Expose the Caliper: You'll now see the brake caliper, brake pads, and rotor.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use the C-clamp or caliper compressor to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker pads. Important: You may need to turn the piston slowly to avoid damaging the internal seals. Some pistons also require twisting while compressing.
5. Remove the Brake Pads: Depending on your caliper design, there might be pins or clips holding the pads in place. Remove these to release the old pads. Sometimes a little persuasion with a flathead screwdriver or brake pad spreader is needed.
6. Clean the Caliper and Rotor: Use a wire brush to clean any rust or debris from the caliper mounting surfaces and the rotor. Brake cleaner can further remove any contaminants.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Carefully insert the new brake pads into the caliper, making sure they're seated correctly. Reinstall any pins or clips.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Mount the caliper back onto the bracket, ensuring it's properly aligned. Tighten the caliper mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Do not overtighten.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
11. Pump the Brakes: Before driving, firmly pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads are properly seated against the rotor.
12. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to verify that the brakes are working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Rotor Condition: Inspect the rotors for excessive wear or scoring. If they're worn beyond the minimum thickness, they need to be replaced or resurfaced.
* Caliper Condition: Check the calipers for leaks, sticking pistons, or other damage. If you find problems, the calipers may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
* Brake Fluid: While not directly part of pad replacement, it's a good idea to check your brake fluid level and condition. If it's low or dirty, it should be flushed and replaced.
* Torque Specifications: Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for the correct torque specifications for all bolts. Using the wrong torque can lead to loose parts or damage.
This is a general overview. Consult your Ford F-250's repair manual for detailed, model-specific instructions. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Brake work is critical for safety, and it's better to be safe than sorry.
