help changing rear break pads
dexterslab
12-06-2004, 11:32 AM
i have a 1995 ford explorer.i think the rear brake shoes have worn out because i get a scraping/grinding sound when i press the brakes.also theres a brown rust on the outside of the wheel i guess this is from the wearing of the brake pads but its only on the left rear wheel.i want to buy pads and put them on myself anything i should know before doing so any help or tip is greatly appreciated...also how do i know if it cut into the rotar?
scoutdog
12-06-2004, 01:21 PM
i have a 1995 ford explorer.i think the rear brake shoes have worn out because i get a scraping/grinding sound when i press the brakes.also theres a brown rust on the outside of the wheel i guess this is from the wearing of the brake pads but its only on the left rear wheel.i want to buy pads and put them on myself anything i should know before doing so any help or tip is greatly appreciated...also how do i know if it cut into the rotar?
Well, I know that there is a difference in shoes and pads. I have a 96 and the front and rear are both pads. Not the same pads though. If I remember correctly they just rest up against the rotor in the slots. the caliper actually holds them in place. Once you get your old pads off you will have to compress your caliper in order to get the new ones on, there is a tool that does it for you, but I have been able to either do it by hand or put a piece of wood over the round shaft and hit it with a hammer. taking off the brake fluid cap might help as well. As far as the rotor goes. You will know if it has been cut into. It will be gouged. Depending on how long it has been rubbing you might be able to have it turned and still keep it in spec. Alot of auto part stores can do this or at least post you in the right direction. With my 96 they are about $60-$70. Might be worth it to just get new ones. Hope this helps...It isn't too difficult of a process. good luck
Well, I know that there is a difference in shoes and pads. I have a 96 and the front and rear are both pads. Not the same pads though. If I remember correctly they just rest up against the rotor in the slots. the caliper actually holds them in place. Once you get your old pads off you will have to compress your caliper in order to get the new ones on, there is a tool that does it for you, but I have been able to either do it by hand or put a piece of wood over the round shaft and hit it with a hammer. taking off the brake fluid cap might help as well. As far as the rotor goes. You will know if it has been cut into. It will be gouged. Depending on how long it has been rubbing you might be able to have it turned and still keep it in spec. Alot of auto part stores can do this or at least post you in the right direction. With my 96 they are about $60-$70. Might be worth it to just get new ones. Hope this helps...It isn't too difficult of a process. good luck
mfayant
12-08-2004, 01:37 AM
you probably have drums in the back and not rotors, back brakes are a little more trickier to do since they have spring mechanisms. You might have to replace your drum also.
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