I need to change the rear brake pads on a 2007 Expedition and was going to turn the rotors also. It appears the rotor is held onto the axle by a large nut and not having done any brake jobs in several years, I've never run into a rear rotor that's bolted on. Can anyone tell me if this is the case and if so, what size socket do I need to get it off. Also, I was curious if there is anything else I need to know before I dive in. I heard it was a bitch to get off.

 

That big nut you see is for the rear CV shaft. The 07 Expy doesnt' have a solid rear axle like the older ones. That big nut is what holds the CV shaft to the hub. The rotor should come off after you remove the caliper and the backing plate. Once the caliper and backing plate are removed, the rotor should either be loose and easily removed, or you may have to give the rotor hub-face a little talking to with a hammer. If it doesn't look loose, give the hub-face a little kiss with a hammer and it'll loosen up. Just don't hit the actual braking surface. A little rap on the flat area around the axle studs. And don't hit the studs either!

 

I like to use a dead blow hammer, 3 lb works good. And if you miss. . .it isn't the end of the world everytime like a metal hammer.

 

Thanks for the help guys. I thought it was probably just stuck on there by rust but didn't want to force it until I found out for sure. I'll just get "Big Red," my 60oz. dead blow rubber mallet and have a talk with it. I appreciate it.