Brake job advice

[bp fick]

I have an 05 Ranger and have done the fronts. First off, the fronts are not anti-lock, only the rear.

Secondly, yes, C clamp or caliper grips, or even super large channel locks and be done.

 

[bp fick]

To bleed the front lines, which you should do as brake fluid has a life span for rust inhibitor issues you know. When you are done installing the pads, just open the bleeder. One side at a time. Let it drip into a coffee can or oil change pan. Keep the reservoir full at all times. Let bleed until old fluid is replaced by new, approximately 6-8 oz. Do the other side. Brake fluid is cheap. Replacing rusted brake lines is a pita.

This is called gravity bleeding and it is stunningly effective, especially for a one man show. Beats all the "pump it up!" "Hold it" stuff.

 

[Taylortractornut]

Thanks for the tip BP I didnt know the fronts werent abs. I think myh shop has an opening this week if not ill do them myself.

 

[CurlyDave]

I have found that some of the tire chains will do a brake job for less than I can buy the parts. And that is getting them on the internet.

Look around and ask.

 

[Wis Bang]

My technician [neighbor] has a plate w/ a threaded knob that he uses to push one of the old pads to slowly push the piston back. He uses it all the time on ABS equipped cars.

I used to put pressure w/ a big screw driver b/4 opening the bleeder & close it just b/4 the piston was all the way in so no air was drawn into the system b/4 I had access to his tools...