How to Change the Disc Brakes on a 2001 Silverado

The disc brakes on the 2001 Chevy Silverado are designed to perform within the standards set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To ensure that the brakes perform properly, regular maintenance, proper use and replacement (when necessary) is required. Changing the brake pads provides an opportunity to inspect and service the other integral components of the braking system. Be sure to return any brake fluid that is expelled during the replacement process.

Difficulty: Moderately ChallengingInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Tire iron
Tire blocks
Lifting jack
Jack stands
Caliper
Rotor
Brake pads
Brake pad holder
T-55 Torx socket
Ratchet
18-mm wrench
Brake cleaner spray
Brake grease
Clean towel

Step 1
Park the Silverado in an area that will allow you to safely work on both sides of the truck. This area should be on a relatively flat surface, away from passing traffic.
Step 2
Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels with the tire iron. Place tire blocks behind to the rear wheels.
Step 3
Lift the vehicle with a lifting jack and place jack stands beneath the frame of the truck. Remove the lug nuts and pull the wheels from the wheel bolts.
Step 4
Remove the caliper slide bolts with the T-55 Torx socket and ratchet. The bolts are located at either end of the caliper on the side of the caliper closest to the frame of the truck.
Step 5
Remove the caliper from the brake pad holder and rest it on the upper control arm so as to not put tension on the brake line.
Step 6
Remove the brake pads from the brake pad holder. The brake pads sit on a ledge in the brake pad holder on either side of the rotor.
Step 7
Disconnect the brake line from the caliper by hand. Place the drip pan beneath the hub to catch any fluid leaking from the line.
Step 8
Unscrew the brake pad holder bolts with an 18-mm wrench. Remove the brake pad holder from the rotor.
Step 9
Pull the rotor from the wheel bolts. Spray the rotor with chain lubricant to break the bond of rust attaching the rotor to the hub of the truck.
Step 10
Spray brake cleaner on every surface of the new rotor. Remove the cleaner and packing oil from the surface of the rotor with a clean towel.
Step 11
Place a new rotor onto the wheel bolts. Place the new brake pad holder onto the rotor. Screw in the brake pad holder bolts using the 18-mm wrench.
Step 12
Connect the brake line to the new caliper. Place the new brake pads into the slots in the brake pad holder on either side of the rotor. Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the inner walls of the caliper. Place the caliper over the brake pads in the brake pad holder and screw in the caliper slide bolts with the Torx wrench.
Step 13
Replace the wheels onto the wheel bolts and screw on the lug nuts. Remove the jack stands and lower the truck to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts with the tire iron.
Step 14
Press the brake pedal slowly, holding the pedal in the depressed position for 10 seconds.
Step 15
Lift the hood of the Silverado and remove the cap to the master cylinder. Fill the master cylinder with brake fluid until the level of fluid reaches the "full line" of the container. Replace the cap and close the hood.