How to replace the brake pads on a 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback (Bullitt)?

Replacing the brake pads on a 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback (Bullitt) is a critical maintenance task that ensures the safety and performance of this classic car. Over time, brake pads wear down due to friction and need to be replaced to maintain optimal stopping power. Signs of worn brake pads include a squealing noise when braking, reduced braking efficiency, or a spongy brake pedal. Here is how to solve this issue by replacing the brake pads.

Step 1: Prepare the Workspace and Car
Before starting any work, ensure the car is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged. To be safe, place wheel chocks or bricks behind the rear wheels. Gather all necessary tools including a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a C-clamp, a brake cleaner spray, and a set of new brake pads.

Step 2: Lift the Car and Remove the Wheels
Using a jack, lift the front of the car and secure it on jack stands. The jack points are located on the frame behind the front wheels. Once the car is secured, use the lug wrench to remove the wheel nuts and take off the front wheels. This will give you access to the brake components.

Step 3: Locate the Brake Caliper
The brake caliper is the large, U-shaped component that straddles the brake rotor (the round metal disc). It is held in place by two caliper bolts which are located at the back of the caliper. These bolts are typically hex or Allen bolts.

Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper
Use the appropriate wrench to remove the caliper bolts. Once the bolts are out, carefully slide the caliper off the rotor. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose; use a piece of wire or a bungee cord to hang it from the suspension.

Step 5: Remove the Old Brake Pads
The brake pads are located inside the caliper bracket. They are rectangular and have a metal backing. Simply slide them out. Be mindful of the anti-rattle clips, if equipped, and take note of how they are positioned for reinstallation.

Step 6: Compress the Brake Caliper Piston
Use a C-clamp to compress the piston back into the caliper. Place one end of the C-clamp on the piston and the other end on the back of the caliper. Tighten the clamp slowly until the piston is fully retracted. This step is necessary to make room for the new, thicker brake pads.

Step 7: Install the New Brake Pads
Slide the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are seated correctly. If your brake pads came with new anti-rattle clips, position them as noted earlier.

Step 8: Reinstall the Brake Caliper
Carefully slide the caliper back over the rotor and new brake pads. Secure it in place by reinstalling the caliper bolts and tightening them to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 9: Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Car
Put the wheels back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Use the jack to lift the car slightly, remove the jack stands, and then lower the car to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 10: Test the Brakes
Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brake pads are properly seated and the brake pedal feels firm. Take the car for a slow test drive to check the braking performance and ensure everything is functioning correctly.

By following these steps, you can effectively replace the brake pads on your 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback (Bullitt) and ensure it continues to perform safely and reliably.