Safety First:
* Chock the wheels: Securely chock the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Engage the parking brake: Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from flying debris and sharp edges.
* Use jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use jack stands for proper support.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Wheel chocks
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Socket set (metric)
* Wheel removal tool (if necessary, for stubborn lug nuts)
* Caliper piston compressor tool
* Hammer
* Pry bar (possibly)
* Torque wrench
* Brake cleaner
* Clean rags
Procedure:
1. Raise and secure the vehicle: Safely lift the rear of the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the caliper:
* Locate the caliper mounting bolts: These are usually on the back of the caliper.
* Compress the caliper piston: Use the caliper piston compressor tool to retract the caliper piston. This is crucial to allow the caliper to clear the rotor. If you don't compress the piston, you risk damaging the caliper or the brake lines. Do this slowly and evenly to avoid damage.
* Remove the caliper mounting bolts: Carefully remove the bolts and set them aside.
* Remove the caliper: Gently remove the caliper from the rotor, being careful not to damage the brake hose. You may need to carefully maneuver it over the parking brake mechanism. It's a good idea to support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to keep the brake hose from stretching or twisting.
4. Remove the rotor:
* Inspect for retaining clips or screws: Some rotors have retaining clips or screws on the back of the rotor hub. Remove them if present.
* Usually, the rotor should now just slide off: Sometimes, rust or corrosion can cause it to stick. If it's stuck, gently tap the rotor with a hammer around its circumference, working your way around. A pry bar can be *carefully* used, but be mindful of potential damage to the hub or rotor. Avoid excessive force.
5. Clean the mating surfaces: Thoroughly clean the hub and rotor mating surfaces with brake cleaner and rags before installing the new rotor.
6. Install the new rotor (reverse procedure): Carefully install the new rotor onto the hub.
7. Reassemble the caliper: Reinstall the caliper, ensuring it sits correctly on the new rotor. Tighten the mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
8. Bleed the brakes: After reinstalling the caliper, it's essential to bleed the brakes to remove any air introduced during the process. Consult your vehicle's repair manual for the proper bleeding procedure.
9. Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle: Torque the lug nuts to the proper specification. Lower the vehicle.
Important Considerations:
* Rust and corrosion: On a vehicle this old, rust and corrosion are common. Penetrating oil applied beforehand might help free things up.
* Parking brake: Pay close attention to the interaction of the caliper with the parking brake mechanism.
* Brake fluid: Be careful not to spill brake fluid. If you do, clean it up immediately. Brake fluid can damage paint.
This process is involved, and if you are not comfortable working on brakes, it is strongly recommended to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake systems are safety critical, and incorrect repair can have serious consequences.
