How to Put on Brake Rotors

Brake rotors should be replaced when they become scored, excessively rusted or warped. Any of these conditions can reduce brake life or decrease the occupant's safety by increasing the distance needed to stop. Warped rotors will also cause the driver to feel a severe shake in the vehicle when applying the brakes. Replacing rotors is not difficult and requires only common tools.

Instructions

1

Use the screwdriver or small pry bar and remove the wheel covers.

2

Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Do not remove the lug nuts at this point.

3

Jack the vehicle high enough for the tires to be off the ground.

4

Remove the lug nuts, then remove the tires.

5

Select the proper socket and remove the bolts which hold the caliper in place.

6

Remove the caliper. Do not let it hang from the brake hose. Use a piece of wire or some other means to tie it up and support it.

7

Locate the two bolts which secure the caliper carrier to the spindle. These are large bolts, generally requiring an 18mm or 19mm wrench to remove. Loosen and remove these bolts and the carrier.

8

Remove the rotor. It should simply pull off the hub, but force is sometimes required if the rotor is rusted to the hub. If the rotor does not easily remove, insert a large screwdriver in the cooling fins to provide some leverage when prying it off.

9

Install the new rotor. It will simply slide on over the studs. Temporarily hold it in place with one lug nut.

10

Replace the caliper carrier. Put a drop of Locktite medium strength of the threads before installing the bolts.

11

Install a set of new brake pads. Never reuse old brake pads.

12

Replace the caliper and the caliper bolts.

13

Replace the tire and securely tighten the lug nuts.

14

Take the vehicle off the jack stands and jack.

15

Recheck the lug nuts for tightness.

16

Pump the brake pedal a few times before driving the vehicle.