How to Install Front Brake Rotors

Over time, a brake's rotor can become pitted from road debris. Excessive heat can also cause a brake rotor to warp. Finally, work brake pads can gouge the surface of the rotor. Each of these problems reduces the surface area of the rotor, and thereby reduces a vehicle's ability to stop effectively. Follow the steps below to install a brake rotor.

Instructions

1

Raise the vehicle with a jack and support the vehicle with jack stands.

2

Remove the wheel and tire assembly by removing the lug nuts with a lug-nut wrench.

3

Remove the caliper assembly from the rotor by removing the bolts on the backside of the caliper with a wrench.

4

Remove the grease cap from the hub by prying the cap loose with a flathead screwdriver. Remove the cotter pin, lock nut, bearing and flat washer from the center of the wheel hub. These items are visible once the grease cap is removed.

5

Remove the hub and rotor assembly by lifting them away from the spindle.

6

Pack a new set of bearings with grease, then slide the bearing onto the end of the spindle.

7

Slide the rotor onto the spindle until the rotor lies flush against the rotor's backing plate.

8

Slide the wheel hub over the spindle until it rests firmly against the rotor.

9

Slide the inter bearing cone into the center of the hub, followed by the roller assembly.

10

Place the flat washer into the center of the wheel hub.

11

Place the lock nut over the treads located in the center of the wheel hub, then tighten the lock nut with a wrench.

12

Insert the cotter pin through the end of the spindle. The cotter pin slides through the hole in the spindle which is located next to the lock nut.

13

Place the grease cup over the end of the spindle and tap it lightly with a rubber mallet to secure the grease cup in place and to complete the installation.