I. Identifying Brake Type:
Look behind your rear wheels.
* Drum Brakes: You'll see a round, cylindrical drum that's part of the wheel hub. The brake shoes are *inside* this drum.
* Disc Brakes: You'll see a flat, circular disc (rotor) attached to the wheel hub. The brake calipers are *outside* this disc.
II. Replacing Rear Drum Brakes (Most Common for 1999 Ranger):
This is a more involved job than disc brakes. You will need:
* Jack and jack stands: Safety first! Secure the vehicle properly.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Hammer: To help loosen things.
* C-clamp or brake spring tool: To compress the brake springs. (Essential!)
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): Various sizes.
* Sockets and ratchet: To remove the wheel cylinder and other components. (Likely 7/16", 9/16", and 1/2" sockets)
* Brake cleaner: To clean everything thoroughly.
* New brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and hardware kit: Buy a complete kit; don't reuse old parts. Make sure you get the correct kit for your specific Ranger model.
* Grease: For lubricating pins and other parts.
* Owner's manual: Consult it for specific torque specifications.
Steps (Drum Brakes):
1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle on jack stands, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the front wheels.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Drum: Sometimes the drum is stuck. Gently tap around its edge with a rubber mallet to loosen it. If it's really stuck, you may need to use penetrating oil.
4. Inspect the Components: Look at the brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and springs. Note how everything is assembled; take pictures if necessary.
5. Remove the Brake Shoes: Use the C-clamp or spring tool to compress the return springs and carefully remove the brake shoes. Note their position for proper reassembly.
6. Inspect and Replace the Wheel Cylinders: Wheel cylinders are prone to leaking. If they're leaking or damaged, replace them.
7. Clean Everything: Thoroughly clean all components with brake cleaner.
8. Install New Brake Shoes and Hardware: Install the new brake shoes, springs, and hardware, following the instructions or the order you noted previously.
9. Install the Wheel Cylinder: Carefully install the new or reconditioned wheel cylinder.
10. Install the Drum: Put the drum back on.
11. Reinstall the Wheel: Tighten the lug nuts.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
13. Bleed the Brakes: Very important! Use a brake bleeder kit to bleed the brakes to remove air from the system. This is crucial for proper brake function.
III. Replacing Rear Disc Brakes (Less Common for 1999 Ranger):
This is generally easier than drum brakes. You'll need similar tools, but will also need:
* Caliper piston compression tool: To push the caliper pistons back in.
* New brake pads and rotors: Check the rotors for scoring or wear; if bad, replace them.
Steps (Disc Brakes):
1. Safety First: Same as above.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: There are bolts holding the caliper to the bracket. Remove these bolts.
4. Compress the Caliper Pistons: Use the compression tool to push the pistons back into the caliper.
5. Remove the Pads: Remove the old brake pads.
6. Inspect the Rotors: If scored or worn, replace them.
7. Install New Pads: Install the new brake pads.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Reinstall the caliper.
9. Install the Wheel: Tighten the lug nuts.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
11. Bleed the Brakes: Bleed the brakes.
Important Considerations:
* Safety: Working on brakes is critical. If you're not comfortable, take it to a professional. Improperly maintained brakes are extremely dangerous.
* Torque Specifications: Always use the correct torque specifications for the lug nuts and other bolts. This is found in your owner's manual.
* Brake Fluid: If you're bleeding the brakes, you'll need fresh brake fluid. Never mix types of brake fluid.
This information is for general guidance only. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. Improperly installed brakes can be dangerous. If you're unsure about any step, consult a qualified mechanic.
