How do I change the front brakes on a 1996 Ford Explorer 4WD?

Answer 1

Well, if it's the same as my '95 Exploder, you do this (assuming you're just changing the brake pads):

- Jack up one side (block the rear wheel) and remove the tire.

- You'll see the caliper assembly located towards the rear of the brake rotor. There are two brake pads (an inner and an outer).

- Looking on the inner surface of the caliper assembly, you'll see two bolts that pass through the caliper and thread into the frame that holds it (you'll notice some rubber boots surrounding the shaft of each bolt). Loosten and remove both bolts (keep them for reassembly!).

- Lift off the caliper assembly (upward and rearward), being careful not to damage or kink the rubber brake line. You may want to fashion a support hook, using part of a wire hanger.

- Each brake pad should be removed with only slight pressure, due to the fastening clips. Note that they are dissimilar and that there is a left and right set of pads.

- Most likely, it will be necessary to compress the caliper piston, using a large C-clamp. This you must do, because the new pads will be thicker than the old ones. Not taking this step will cause the caliper with new pads installed to not fit over the rotor.

- After compressing the piston, install and fully seat the new pads in the same orientation as the old.

- Slide the caliper assembly over the rotor (reverse the action taken to remove it), being careful to not kink the brake hose. Re-install the two bolts. You may want to tighten the bolts to Ford's recommended torque specification [refer to a Chilton or Hayes repair book (available at auto parts stores)].

- Replace the tire, tighten the lug nuts, lower the vehicle.

- Repeat the above steps for the other side.

NOTE - It is usually recommended that the rotors be "turned," when changing brake pads. This is especially true, if the rotors have become scored (scratched). Many auto parts stores offer this service.

Always low speed test the brakes, before driving in traffic or at highway speeds. If in doubt, do not attempt this repair! Instead, bring the vehicle to the dealership or a trusted mechanic

Answer 2

take wheel off, un-bolt calipers, take pads off, compress piston back into caliper with a c-clamp, put new pads on, bolt caliper back in place and youre done, Just dont forget to pump the brake peddle to regain pressure in the brake line before you drive.