87 Ranger 4wd Brake Job

[High Desert Ranger]

I no longer have the access to the tools I used to, so now that I need to do the front brakes on my 87 Ranger, I have no clue if I need any special tools.

It has stock manual locking hubs.

Can any one help?

 

[kunar]

just the socket for the spindle nut. everything else is really simple.

 

[MAKG]

Nothing else is special. Two screwdrivers (flatblade) will get the snap ring off. A pair of channel locks and a hammer and punch will get the slide pins out. A C-clamp will compress the pistons. On an '87 4WD, you can (easily) tap the wheel bearing seals out by hammering out the wheel bearing with a VERY SOFT punch (I use a rubber mallet handle). On Dana 35s, the only way I've been able to get that seal out is by punching the edge into the center.

Note that the spindle nut socket used for manual hubs is quite different from that used with automatic hubs.

 

[High Desert Ranger]

This spindle nut socket is special for rangers?

 

[cyborgv1]

I recently had to purchase the spindle socket, and I'm not sure if it's special. It's really just a large deep round socket with teeth protruding from the bottom. The only time you need this is if you plan on removing the rotor as well. Otherwise, you just need pliers, a hammer and a large c-clamp. I've found the slotted end of my hydraulic jack handle will allow me to use a 3/4 inch socket extension bar to finish driving the slide pins right out.

 

[MAKG]

"Doing the brakes" without removing the rotor is equivalent to "doing them again" (later).

You ALWAYS remove the rotor for a brake job or you're wasting your time.

 

[hopster]

you can do the brakes without taking the rotors off IF they have enough material left to machine AND you use an on-car brake lathe.

 

[MAKG]

you can do the brakes without taking the rotors off IF they have enough material left to machine AND you use an on-car brake lathe.

While that's true, it's hardly relevant to a guy who doesn't have access to tools.

 

[High Desert Ranger]

Besides that i have new rotors to put on.

 

[JTH1972]

anyone have pictures of what the spindle nut looks like for a 4X4? I checked my rotors today, and they're pretty much shot. This would be a lot easier with a manual, but mine's still in the mail.

While I'm at it, since these rotors are looking pretty old, am I further ahead to just replace the bearings than try to save the old ones (if they're any good)?