Changing brake pads

[benyl]

I did a search here and on Google, but to no avail.

Anyone know where I can find instructions on how to change the brake pads on a 2001 Dodge Caravan? My mom's lease is up in 3 months, and I think one of the calipers was ceased and so the pads are worn down.

She doesn't want to spend $200 on a brake job and I offered to change them for free. I have changed them on my CBR, so I don't expect it to be too different, but you never know.

Thanks!

[hjr]

most disk brakes are the same. pull the top off the master cylinder. Pry the brake cylinder back into the pot enough to take off the retainer and pull the pads out. put in new pads. (from ford windstar, caravan shouldnt be too much different).

[EK 2.0]

Originally posted by hjr
most disk brakes are the same. pull the top off the master cylinder. Pry the brake cylinder back into the pot enough to take off the retainer and pull the pads out. put in new pads. (from ford windstar, caravan shouldnt be too much different).

Uhmm...having never "pried a piston back into the caliper" you might wanna just remove the caliper from the car usually 2 bolts...and then using a c-clamp push the piston back into the caliper...install new pads and bolt it back on...shouldnt take you more then 20 mins man...

[hjr]

well i usually pry between the pad and rotor, not on the actual cyl. Carefully though. But there is nothing wrong with that. The caliper may or may not have to come off. Probably does though as the pads on new cars are quite long. anyways, its an easy job.

[benyl]

cool, thanks guys.

I read somewhere that you should take out about half of the brake fluid in the resevoir. Is this necessary as it should be a closed system?

[EK 2.0]

Just take the cap off of the Master Cylinder...should be fine then...