Here's a general outline. Specific steps might vary slightly depending on your exact model and the caliper design. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 2000 Ford Focus SE for detailed instructions and torque specifications. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands (essential for safety)
* Wheel chocks
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Brake caliper wrench (C-clamp style or specialized tool is recommended)
* Open-end wrenches (metric)
* Pliers
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New brake calipers (make sure to get the correct ones for your vehicle)
* New brake pads (highly recommended, even if the old ones seem okay)
* New caliper bolts (if applicable)
* Torque wrench (crucial for proper tightening)
* Rags or shop towels
* Container for brake fluid
* Gloves (brake fluid is corrosive)
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Use jack stands to securely lift the front of the car. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car. Remove the wheel.
3. Compress the Piston: Use a C-clamp style brake caliper compressor tool or a specialized tool to push the brake caliper piston back into the caliper bore. This is necessary to allow the new brake pads to fit. Be careful not to damage the piston seal. As you compress the piston, brake fluid will be displaced. Have a container ready to catch the fluid.
4. Disconnect the Brake Caliper:
* Brake Line: Carefully loosen the brake line connection at the caliper. You may need a wrench and possibly a flare nut wrench. Have a rag ready to catch any spilled brake fluid. Some calipers have a retaining clip on the brake line. Consult your repair manual.
* Caliper Bolts: Locate the bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. Unscrew them using the appropriate socket wrench. They might be difficult to access, requiring extensions and/or universal joints.
5. Remove the Caliper: Carefully remove the caliper from the bracket. It may be slightly stuck due to rust, so gently wiggle it free.
6. Remove Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be easily removable.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.
8. Install New Caliper: Mount the new caliper onto the bracket, aligning the bolts. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque (found in your repair manual).
9. Reconnect the Brake Line: Carefully reconnect the brake line. Make sure the connection is secure and there are no leaks. Bleed the brakes after replacing the caliper to remove any air that may have entered the system. This is crucial for proper braking function. (Refer to your repair manual for bleeding procedures.)
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Tighten the lug nuts securely.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground using the jack. Tighten the lug nuts again with the lug wrench.
12. Test the Brakes: Carefully test the brakes by pumping the pedal several times. If the pedal feels spongy or goes all the way to the floor, you may have air in the brake lines and need to bleed the brakes again.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: This is a crucial step after replacing a caliper. Air in the brake lines can severely compromise braking performance. Consult your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure. You may need a helper.
* Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is corrosive. Avoid getting it on your skin or paint. Use appropriate protective gear.
* Torque Specifications: Always use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Over-tightening can damage parts, while under-tightening can lead to looseness and failure.
* Repair Manual: This is not a complete guide. Refer to a repair manual for your specific vehicle model for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
Remember, working on brakes is serious. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional assistance. Incorrectly installed brakes can lead to dangerous consequences.
