Here's a general outline of the process for replacing the front disc brakes (most common on F-150s):
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands (crucial for safety!)
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Combination wrench set (metric)
* Brake caliper piston compressor tool
* C-clamp (sometimes used as an alternative to a caliper piston compressor)
* Pliers
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New brake pads
* New rotors (often recommended when replacing pads)
* Torque wrench
* Gloves
* Safety glasses
Steps (Front Disc Brakes):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake firmly, and use wheel chocks on the wheels opposite the ones you're working on. Place the jack under a sturdy part of the frame near the wheel you're changing. Raise the vehicle securely with the jack and place it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the truck. Once the vehicle is securely on jack stands, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper: Locate the caliper mounting bolts (usually two). Use the appropriate socket and wrench to carefully remove these bolts. The caliper should now swing freely, but it will still be attached by the brake line. You may need to use a bungee cord or wire to keep the caliper out of the way without letting the brake line hang.
4. Remove the Brake Pads: The brake pads should be easily visible. Remove the old brake pads. Take note of how they were installed (sometimes there are shims or wear sensors).
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use the caliper piston compressor tool to compress the caliper piston. This is necessary to create space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal. If you don't have a compression tool, a C-clamp can *sometimes* work, but use extreme caution to avoid damage.
6. Clean and Inspect: Clean the caliper, caliper bracket, and rotor surface with brake cleaner. Inspect the rotor for excessive wear, scoring, or damage. If the rotor is damaged, it *must* be replaced.
7. Install New Rotor (If Necessary): If replacing the rotor, install the new rotor according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Install New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads, making sure they slide smoothly into their grooves. If there are wear sensors, install them as well.
9. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper over the brake pads and secure it with the caliper mounting bolts. Torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications (found in your repair manual).
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts in sequence) to avoid warping the rotor. Once snug, lower the vehicle to the ground and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification.
11. Repeat for the Other Side: Repeat steps 2-10 for the other front wheel.
12. Bleed the Brakes (Important): After installing new brakes, it's crucial to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system. This is best done with a helper, using a brake bleeder kit. Refer to your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure.
Rear Brakes:
The rear brakes may be drum brakes or disc brakes depending on your specific F-150 trim. The procedure is different for each. A repair manual is essential for this process. Drum brakes, in particular, are more complex to replace.
This is a simplified overview. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 2007 Ford F-150 before attempting this repair. Failure to follow proper procedures can result in brake failure and serious injury. If you are not comfortable with this task, seek professional help.
