How to Change Rotors on a Chevy Uplander Van
by John Rose
When you inspect the brake rotors on your Chevy Uplander, you need to check them thoroughly. Some light grooves on the surface of the rotor may seem insignificant. The fact is, if the brake pads cannot grip the surface solidly, they will not work properly. Check to be sure there is no cracking visible in the rotor. You also want to look for warping. Check both sides of the rotor and not just the front as damage can occur on both sides. It only takes about 30 minutes to change the rotor on each wheel. If you have any doubt about the rotor at all, replace it.
Step 1
Park the Uplander on a level, firm surface. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.
Step 2
Raise the Chevy with an automobile jack. Place a jack stand under the vehicle near its jacking point and raise it up to the frame.
Step 3
Remove the lug nuts on the wheel with the lug wrench then pull the wheel from the wheel assembly. Remove the caliper retaining bolts with a socket and ratchet. Secure the caliper to the strut with a wire tie. Never let the brake caliper hang loose or you will damage the brake lines.
Step 4
Pull off the brake rotor from the wheel assembly. Install the new brake rotor onto the wheel assembly.
Step 5
Cut the wire tie holding the caliper to the strut with a pair of pliers. Put the caliper in place on the wheel assembly and tighten the bolts with the socket and ratchet. Remount the wheel on the Uplander and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.
Step 6
Remove the jack stand from under the Uplander and lower the vehicle to the ground with the jack. Repeat the process on the other wheel.
Things You'll Need
- Automobile jack
- Jack stand
- Wheel chocks
- Lug wrench
- Socket set
- Wire ties
- Pliers
Warnings
- Brake linings contain asbestos fibers. Handle brake parts carefully and wash your hands thoroughly after completing the project.
Writer Bio
John Rose has been writing professionally since 1981. Now contributing to various online publications, he specializes in auto repair, home maintenance and similar topics. Rose studied English at Frostburg State University.
