Replacing Front Brakes

I found a few posts with descriptions on how to replace the front rotors and pads but I am wondering which is the best or most complete set of directions. Looking for the best set as I have not done my breaks yet. Appreciate the recommendations.

 

Factory manual is a good start

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-availability-pdf.485229/page-8#post-21920172

 

Have you done brakes on any other vehicle? To my knowledge there isn't anything special about the front brakes on our trucks...

 

It’s fairly easy to do. Just remember to remove the bolt that hold the brake line to the strut and don’t hang the caliper bracket with the brake line or you will tear it. And make sure you push all 4 pistons at the same time in the caliper bracket. If you only squeeze one side the other side will push out and you are going to leak brake fluid.

 

I have not done breaks before but I am not without some skill and I heard that it wasn't a hard job so I thought I would give it a go.

Appreciate the tips as well!

 

Gotcha. Try this video. I like it because it does mention using the screw holes to unstick a rotor.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLiedgXMxXs

 

Appreciate the video. Seem simple enough.

 

Just take your time, use your phone and take pictures (in case you lose track of where things go) and see if you can enlist the help of somebody with experience

 

how many miles are on the original brakes, may just need new pads

 

I have 71k on them now. I have been getting a clicking sound when I apply the brakes for the first time after switching from forward to reverse or the other way. I am 99% sure the pads are are slapping are shifting back and forth and hitting the caliper because they are worn out.

I have never had just pads replaced without having the rotors being done at the same time. Is that an acceptable practice?

 

yes

 

My two cents as I wake up. Wouldn't use a torque wrench to break off lugs, and were are the dust caps for the axle nut.

 

Check your rotor thickness with a micrometer or caliper to ensure they are not under minimum thickness. As long as the rotors are in spec and you are not getting a pulsing in the pedal is is ok to just put on new pads.

just make sure you use good parts... not the Chicom crap from the local auto parts store. EBC makes great rotors and pads.

 

make sure your brake master cylinder is not full of fluid. When you press the caliper pistons in, it will force brake fluid from the calipers up into the master cylinder and may spill out which is bad, brake fluid is very corrosive and will eat paint. If you have to, use a small turkey baster to suck some of the fluid out of the master cylinder before you start.

 

I replaced my brakes pads at 50k miles. I used the same rotors and did not get it resurfaced because they were still good. I have 80k miles now and the front brakes have been working perfectly no squeals or abnormal wear.