Tools You'll Need:
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket set and ratchet: Various sizes will be needed.
* C-clamp or brake caliper piston compressor: To retract the caliper piston.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening.
* Wire brush or brake cleaner: To clean the hub.
* Hammer (optional): May be needed to help loosen stubborn parts.
* Penetrating lubricant (like PB Blaster): Helpful for loosening rusted bolts.
* New rotors: Get the correct ones for your Ram model.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts slightly with the lug wrench before jacking up the truck. Jack up the truck and securely support it with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper:
* Use a socket to remove the caliper mounting bolts. There are usually two.
* Carefully support the caliper with a bungee cord or hang it from something nearby. Don't let the brake line dangle freely.
4. Retract the Caliper Piston:
* Use a C-clamp or specialized piston compressor tool to push the caliper piston back into its housing. This creates space for the new rotor. You'll need to turn the piston as you compress it. This is to allow the fluid to return to the master cylinder.
5. Remove the Old Rotor:
* Often, the rotor is held on by a single large nut in the center (on some models, there could be other fastening methods). Use the appropriate socket to remove it. If it's stuck, use a hammer and punch (carefully!) to tap it loose. Be mindful not to damage the wheel hub.
* Inspect the wheel hub. Clean any rust or debris from the mating surface with a wire brush and brake cleaner.
6. Install the New Rotor:
* Clean the mating surface of the new rotor.
* Install the new rotor onto the wheel studs.
* Tighten the center nut to the specifications in your repair manual using a torque wrench.
7. Reinstall the Caliper:
* Carefully mount the caliper back onto its bracket.
* Tighten the caliper mounting bolts to the specified torque.
8. Reinstall the Wheel:
* Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
* Lower the vehicle to the ground.
* Tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench in a star pattern (opposite nuts first). Don't overtighten!
9. Torque Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
10. Test: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes are working correctly. Test drive the truck carefully.
Important Considerations:
* Brake fluid: If you're working with the brake system, you may need to bleed the brakes afterward to remove any air bubbles. This is a crucial step to prevent brake failure.
* Rust and seized components: If parts are heavily rusted or seized, penetrating lubricant and some patience (and maybe a little heat) may be necessary.
* Wheel bearing: Inspect the wheel bearing while you have the rotor off. It's a good idea to repack the bearing with grease if it's worn or dry.
Again, this is a general guide. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for model-specific instructions. Failure to follow proper procedures could lead to brake failure or damage to your vehicle. If you are not comfortable performing this repair, seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.
