99 Explorer brake pads (4wd)

[delcecchi]

How much of a pain is it to do these yourself? I had them done last time, but was thinking of doing it myself, now that I am retired and have time.

I would just put pads on. If the rotors look too bad, I would forget the whole thing and have it done, probably.

Comments? Advice?

[Macgyver55]

People will tell you that its no big deal to put pads in and in reality its not. Its everything that needs to be done with it that makes it more complicated. I don't recommend doing just a brake pad replacement because it really involves more than that . The anchors need to be cleaned well so that the stainless retainer clips are seated properly and the pads move freely in them. You also need to make sure that the mounting pins are clean, move freely, lubed with a good brake grease and that the seals on them are good. A quality brake job should include removing the rotors and cleaning rust and scale off of the back side mating surface of the rotor and the hub flange. A freshly turned rotor will give better pad life and you will have smoother braking. Overlooking of these details will result in premature wear of your new pads.

If you have the necessary tools and the time, doing it yourself is not out of the question if you are mechanically inclined, but some jobs are better left to the experienced if you have doubts.

[Jeremy airjer W]

Ford brackets like to rust up and pinch the pads. Failure to clean the pad mating services properly will significantly reduce the life of the brakes.

[delcecchi]

Thanks, good to know. I guess I will decide after getting a few quotes from local guys here in Rochester.