Replace 2000 Ford Windstar Brake Pads

The brakes on the 2000 Ford Windstar should be inspected regularly. Owners should look for wear and damage to the brake pads and rotors, as well as ensure there is adequate brake fluid in the vehicle, for the brakes to function properly. Ford recommends replacing the brake pads every 50,000 miles. You can choose to have the pads replaced at a brake repair shop, or you can do it yourself to save time and money
Procedure:
1. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels with a lug wrench. Place the jack under the frame at the front of the van, and lift the front tires off the ground. Place jack stands under the axles, and lower the Ford onto the stands.
2. Remove the lug nuts, and take off the front wheels. Remove the two caliper slide bolts on the back side of the right brake caliper, with a 10-mm wrench. Lift the caliper from the brake assembly, and rest it on top of the steering arm, above the brakes.
3. Pry the two brake pads from the caliper bracket with a flat screwdriver. Inspect the caliper bracket slots and rotor for damage or significant wear. Clean the area with a wire brush and brake parts cleaner.
4. Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the back side of the new brake pads. Slide the pads into the caliper bracket slots.
5. Open the brake bleed valve with the 10-mm socket wrench. The valve is located between the two caliper slide bolts. Place a drip pane below the brake, to capture the brake fluid.
6. Compress the caliper piston into the side of the caliper with a C-clamp. The piston is the metal cylinder that protrudes from the inside of the caliper. Open the piston to allow for the added space of the new brake pads. Close the brake bleed valve with the wrench.
7. Replace the caliper onto the new brake pads and caliper bracket. Screw in the caliper bolts, and tighten the pins with the wrench. Replace the wheel onto the wheel bolts, and screw on the lug nuts, by hand. Lift the Windstar with the jack, and remove the jack stands. Lower the tires to the ground, and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.
8. Lift the Ford Windstar hood, and remove the master cylinder cap. Place a funnel inside the brake fluid reservoir, and add new fluid, as necessary. Remove the funnel, and replace the cap. Close the hood.