How to replace the brake pads on a 1971 Dodge Charger R/T?

Replacing the brake pads on a 1971 Dodge Charger R/T is a crucial maintenance task to ensure safe operation of your classic vehicle. Over time, brake pads wear down due to the friction involved in stopping your car, and this can lead to decreased braking performance, longer stopping distances, and potential damage to other braking components. Worn brake pads can also make noticeable grinding or squealing noises when you apply the brakes. To restore optimal braking functionality, you need to replace the worn brake pads. Here’s how to solve this issue:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before starting, ensure you have the necessary tools and replacement parts on hand. You will need:

• A car jack.
• Jack stands.
• A lug wrench.
• A C-clamp.
• A socket set.
• A screwdriver.
• New brake pads.
• Brake cleaner.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle
Locate a flat, stable surface to safely perform the brake pad replacement. Place the car in 'Park' and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels using your lug wrench, but do not remove them completely yet.

Step 3: Lift the Vehicle and Remove the Wheels
Use a car jack to lift the front of the vehicle off the ground. Insert jack stands under the frame for added safety. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands and ensure it is secure. Fully remove the lug nuts and then remove the wheels, placing them out of your work area.

Step 4: Locate and Remove the Caliper Bolts
Look at the brake assembly and locate the caliper, which is the component that houses the brake pads. The caliper is secured by two bolts, typically found on the back side of the assembly. Using a socket set, remove these caliper bolts. Be cautious as the caliper will be loose once the bolts are out.

Step 5: Remove the Caliper and Old Brake Pads
Gently lift the caliper away from the brake rotor. You can use a piece of wire or a bungee cord to hang the caliper from the suspension, ensuring there is no tension on the brake line. Slide the old brake pads out of the caliper bracket. They may be a bit snug, so you might need to wiggle them out carefully.

Step 6: Compress the Caliper Piston
With the old brake pads removed, you'll need to retract the caliper piston to make room for the new pads. Place the C-clamp over the caliper piston and tighten it slowly to push the piston back into the caliper housing. Go slowly to avoid damaging the piston.

Step 7: Install the New Brake Pads
Place the new brake pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure they fit snugly and are aligned properly. Some brake pads may come with anti-squeal shims or backing plates; make sure these are installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 8: Reattach the Caliper
Once the new pads are in place, reposition the caliper over the brake rotor and align it with the caliper bracket. Reinsert and tighten the caliper bolts securely with your socket set.

Step 9: Reinstall the Wheels
Put the wheels back in place and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Use the car jack to carefully lift the vehicle off the jack stands, then remove the stands and lower the vehicle to the ground. Fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.

Step 10: Test the Brakes
Before driving, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake pads are properly seated and the caliper piston is adjusted. This restores the hydraulic pressure in the braking system.

Step 11: Clean Up
Spray the brake assembly with brake cleaner to remove any grease or debris. Make sure all tools and materials are cleared away from the work area.

By following these steps, you can successfully replace the brake pads on your 1971 Dodge Charger R/T, restoring your vehicle's braking performance and ensuring a safer ride.