Here's a general guide. Specific steps may vary slightly depending on your exact F-150 trim and optional equipment. Consult your owner's manual for details specific to your truck.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Ratchet
* Pliers (possibly needle-nose)
* C-clamp (optional, but helpful for compressing calipers)
* Brake caliper piston compression tool (essential)
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New brake pads (ensure you get the correct pads for your vehicle)
* Gloves
* Penetrating lubricant (like PB Blaster)
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake firmly, and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the front of the truck and securely place it on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
2. Locate the Caliper: The brake caliper is a metal housing that clamps onto the rotor (the spinning disc). You'll see the brake pads inside.
3. Remove the Caliper: You'll typically need to remove two bolts securing the caliper to the caliper bracket. These bolts are usually 14mm or 15mm. Spray penetrating lubricant on these bolts beforehand if they are stubborn. Once removed, carefully support the caliper. Don't let it hang by the brake line. You can either hang it from the spring or use a wire to attach it to something secure nearby to avoid stressing the brake line.
4. Remove the Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be visible. They might be held in place by a retaining clip or simply by friction. Carefully remove them. Note their orientation and any shims.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is crucial. The new brake pads are thicker than the old ones, and you need to retract the caliper piston to make room. Never push the piston back in with a screwdriver or other inappropriate tool. Use a caliper piston compression tool designed for this purpose. Slowly compress the piston until there's enough space for the new pads. As you compress the piston, brake fluid will be displaced. Check the master cylinder reservoir and top it off with DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check your owner's manual for the correct type).
6. Clean the Caliper and Bracket: Use a wire brush to clean any rust or debris from the caliper bracket and caliper piston face. Clean the caliper bracket thoroughly with brake cleaner.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are correctly oriented. If there were any shims on the old pads, replace them in the same locations on the new pads.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully mount the caliper back onto the bracket, ensuring the bolts go back into their original holes. Tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque (check your owner's manual or a repair manual).
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
10. Check for Leaks and Test the Brakes: Thoroughly inspect all brake connections for leaks. Pump the brake pedal several times to build pressure. Test drive the vehicle, but carefully, and go slowly at first, as your braking performance may be slightly different until the pads bed in.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: In some cases, after compressing the caliper piston, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove any air that might have entered the system. This is a more advanced procedure; if you are unsure, consult a professional.
* Rotor Condition: Inspect the brake rotors for wear and scoring. If they are severely worn or damaged, they'll need to be replaced or resurfaced.
* Brake Fluid: Keep an eye on the level of your brake fluid and only use the correct type specified in your owner's manual.
* Torque Specifications: Always refer to your owner's manual or a repair manual for the correct torque specifications for all bolts. Over-tightening can damage components.
This is a general guide; variations may exist depending on your specific vehicle. If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic. Improper brake repair can be extremely dangerous.
