Pulling Rotors

[JMichelson]

I’m changing the front brake pads next weekend and may need to turn the rotors. Is there anything special I need to know about pulling the rotors. My Haynes book doesn’t directly address pulling the rotors, only the hub bearing assembly and front axle shaft. It says you should take it to a shop because it requires special tools. You can’t just take the axle nut off and pull the rotor? Thanks, Jeff

 

[illflem]

2 or 4wd? There is no need to turn your rotors unless they are badly scored, just use sandpaper to remove the glaze. If they are warped it will come back after turning, best to just replace them, about $60/ea from Napa for a 4wd. If they need to be turned it should be done with the rotor on the truck, in some areas a dealer only thing=$$$. If you must turn them off the rig it can be done with the unit bearing attached to the rotor. 174k on my 4wd, four sets of pads, rotors never turned.

 

[DieselDoghouse]

4WD: You'll need to free the axle nuts this will separate the spindle (wheel bearing seat) and rotor assembly from the axle BUT you'll also need a 9/16 12-point socket to remove the 4 bolts from the back of the steering knuckle. This will free the rotor/spindle assy from the truck... BUT then you'll have to coax the spindle out of the steering knuckle (the bow-shaped bar mounted to the outside of the ball joints). It will resist!! In retrospect I wished I had a hydraulic or pneumatic ram to push the the spindle out from the round mounting hole in the steering knuckle. Then you wouldn't put stress on the wheel bearing. Good Luck, and move the axle shafts carefully, or you'll chip the axle seals!!!! If at all possible I'd try to leave the rotors on the truck!!!! (Been there) THEN, If you really gotta separate the rotors from the wheel hub/spindles, the 8 wheel studs pass through the rotor and are pressed into the wheel hub sitting just outside when assembled. At that point I'd try to borrow a Dodge manual for reference. Best of luck!! Remember when reassembling - Never-Seize is as Martha says, 'a good thing'.