How to Install Brakes on a 1997 Ford Explorer

Brake pads are common wear items that require prompt replacement. The 1997 Ford Explorer is fitted with disc brakes at all four wheels, and these brakes require service when common signs of brake wear, including screeching and squeal upon brake pedal application become present. With the right tools and enough free time, Explorer owners can install new brakes on their vehicle themselves and save money on repairs in the process.

Instructions

1

Open the hood and disconnect the negative terminal on the battery. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with a lug wrench before raising the vehicle.

2

Use a floor jack to raise the vehicle and support the vehicle with jack stands. Finish removing the lug nuts from the wheels. Grab the wheel with both hands and pull it off of the hub to expose the brakes.

3

Use a ratchet and socket to remove the two bolts located at the rear of the caliper. Lift the caliper off of the rotor and caliper bracket, and then suspend the caliper in mid-air using mechanic's wire.

4

Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket. Place one of the old pads over the caliper pistons and attach a C-clamp to the pad and the back of the caliper. Tighten the C-clamp to push the piston back within the caliper housing.

5

Place the new pads on the caliper housing and slide the caliper back into place. Insert the mounting bolts for the caliper and tighten them with the ratchet and socket.

6

Repeat the procedure for the other wheels, as needed. When finished, mount the wheels onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle to the ground. Finish tightening the lug nuts with the lug wrench.

7

Reconnect the negative terminal cable to the battery and close the hood. Press the brake pedal at least four to five times in order to set the new pads properly.