How to Replace Front Brakes 95-97 Ford Ranger
Difficulty: Advanced · About 150 min · Ford Ranger
Replace front brake rotors and pads on a 1995–1997 Ford Ranger, removing the serviceable hub bearings with the rotor, cleaning and repacking them, and adjusting the spindle nut to the Ford specification.
Tools you will need
- Bearing Grease
- 27mm socket
- Race Installation Tools
- Hammer
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- Torque Wrench
- 15mm Socket
- Pry Bar
- 19mm Socket
- Ratchet
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- 1/2 Inch Socket
Parts and supplies
- Front brake pads
- Front brake rotors
- Wheel bearing grease and seals
Steps
Raise the truck and remove the wheel
Loosen the lug nuts, raise the front, and support the truck securely on stands. Remove the wheel and keep the fasteners in a safe place.
Remove the caliper and bracket
Remove the caliper fasteners and compress the piston only as needed. Support the caliper without straining its hose, then remove the bracket and pads.
Remove the rotor and wheel bearings
Remove the dust cap, cotter pin, spindle nut, and washer, then carefully withdraw the rotor and hub with its outer bearing. Keep the parts clean and in order, and avoid damaging the spindle threads.
Inspect and prepare the hub
Inspect both bearings and races for pitting, heat discoloration, or roughness. Replace damaged components, clean serviceable parts, and pack the bearings thoroughly with the specified wheel bearing grease.
Install the replacement rotor
If transferring the hub components, install the correct races with a bearing driver and seat them fully. Position the hub on the spindle with the packed bearings and seal, following the service manual's procedure for seating and adjusting the spindle nut.
Reinstall caliper and pads
Secure the caliper bracket and install the new pads with lubricant only on approved contact points. Refit the caliper and tighten all brake fasteners to the vehicle specification.
Torque the wheel and set bearing play
Install the wheel and tighten its nuts to specification. Verify wheel bearing end play using the Ford procedure; do not rely on feel alone or leave the spindle nut simply impact-tightened.
Check brakes and bearings
Pump the brake pedal until firm and spin the wheel to check for binding or looseness. Inspect for leaks, secure the dust cap, and test the brakes cautiously before normal driving.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.