Guide to Changing Brake Pads on a Ford Galaxy Mark 1

Comprehensive Guide to Changing Brake Pads on a Ford Galaxy Mark 1 (UK Model)

Changing the brake pads on your Ford Galaxy Mark 1 is a critical maintenance task that ensures your vehicle’s safety and optimal performance. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process for replacing the brake pads on your vehicle. The process is designed for DIY enthusiasts with some basic mechanical knowledge and the necessary tools.

Preparation

Before starting, ensure you have the required tools and materials:

Tools and Materials:

1. New Brake Pads (specific to the Ford Galaxy Mark 1 model)
2. Car Jack and Axle Stands
3. Wheel Brace/Wrench
4. Brake Caliper Piston Tool (or a C-clamp)
5. Socket Set and Ratchet
6. Torque Wrench
7. Flathead Screwdriver
8. Wire Brush (to clean brake components)
9. High-Temperature Brake Grease
10. Brake Cleaner Spray
11. Disposable Gloves (to keep your hands clean)
12. Eye Protection
13. Workshop Manual (optional, for specific torque values)

Safety First

1. Park on a Level Surface: Ensure the car is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Switch Off the Engine: Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
3. Block the Wheels: Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
4. Wear Protective Gear: Gloves and safety glasses are essential to protect against debris and brake dust.

Step 1: Loosen the Wheel Nuts

1. Using a wheel brace or wrench, loosen (do not remove) the wheel nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on.
2. Loosen the nuts slightly while the car is still on the ground to prevent the wheel from spinning.

Step 2: Jack Up the Vehicle

1. Locate the jacking point near the wheel. Refer to your car’s manual for exact locations.
2. Position the car jack and raise the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground.
3. Place an axle stand under the car to ensure stability.
4. Lower the car slightly onto the axle stand, leaving the jack in place as a secondary support.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel

1. Fully remove the loosened wheel nuts.
2. Pull the wheel off and set it aside in a safe location.

Step 4: Inspect the Brake System

1. Check the brake disc (rotor) for wear or damage. If the disc is excessively worn or scored, consider replacing it.
2. Ensure the caliper and surrounding components are in good condition.

Step 5: Remove the Brake Caliper

1. Locate the caliper bolts on the back of the caliper assembly.
2. Use the appropriate socket to loosen and remove the bolts. Keep them in a safe place.
3. Carefully slide the caliper off the brake pads and rotor.
   • Tip: Suspend the caliper using a bungee cord or wire to avoid straining the brake hose.

Step 6: Remove the Old Brake Pads

1. The brake pads should now be visible within the caliper carrier.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the brake pads away from the caliper.
3. Take note of the orientation and placement of the old pads, as the new ones will need to be installed in the same manner.

Step 7: Prepare the Caliper and Carrier

1. Use a wire brush to clean the caliper carrier and remove any built-up rust or debris.
2. Spray brake cleaner on the components and wipe them clean with a rag.
3. Inspect the caliper guide pins and ensure they move freely. Apply a small amount of high-temperature brake grease if necessary.

Step 8: Compress the Caliper Piston

1. Before fitting the new brake pads, the caliper piston must be pushed back to its original position to accommodate the new pads.
2. Use a caliper piston tool or C-clamp for this:
   • Place the tool or clamp against the piston and tighten it slowly.
   • Monitor the brake fluid reservoir while compressing the piston, as fluid levels may rise.

Step 9: Install the New Brake Pads

1. Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the back of the new pads to reduce noise and prevent squealing. Avoid getting grease on the friction surface.
2. Insert the new pads into the caliper carrier in the same orientation as the old pads.

Step 10: Reinstall the Caliper

1. Carefully position the caliper over the new brake pads.
2. Align the caliper with the carrier and reinsert the bolts.
3. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque setting. Refer to your workshop manual for the correct value.

Step 11: Reinstall the Wheel

1. Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the wheel nuts.
2. Lower the car slightly so the wheel is in contact with the ground but not bearing full weight.
3. Use a torque wrench to tighten the wheel nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 12: Lower the Vehicle

1. Fully lower the car by removing the axle stand and using the jack.
2. Perform a final check to ensure all nuts and bolts are securely tightened.

Step 13: Test the Brakes

1. Start the car and pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new pads and restore pressure in the brake system.
2. Test the brakes at low speed in a safe area to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Additional Tips and Troubleshooting

1. Replace Pads in Pairs: Always replace the brake pads on both wheels of an axle to maintain balanced braking.
2. Check Brake Fluid Level: After the job is complete, check the fluid reservoir and top up if necessary.
3. Break-In Period: Avoid aggressive braking for the first 200 miles to allow the new pads to bed in properly.
4. Seek Professional Help if Necessary: If you encounter any difficulties, consult a mechanic.

Conclusion

Changing the brake pads on a Ford Galaxy Mark 1 is a manageable task with the right tools, preparation, and safety precautions. Regular brake maintenance not only improves vehicle safety but also prolongs the lifespan of other brake components. By following this guide, you can confidently and efficiently replace your brake pads while saving on labor costs.