How to Replace Front Brake Rotors on a Chevrolet Avalanche

The Chevrolet Avalanche is a sport utility truck also known as the Cadillac Escalade EXT. This vehicle has disc brakes on the front wheels, which require rotors to slow the wheels during braking. The procedure for replacing the front brake rotors of the Chevrolet Avalanche requires the removal of the entire brake assembly.

Things You’ll Need:

• Floor jack


• Jack stands


• Socket wrench


• Jackscrews

1. Remove two-thirds of the brake fluid from the master brake cylinder to prevent overflow during the procedure. Raise the vehicle with a floor jack, and support it safely on jack stands. Remove the front tire and wheel from the wheel hub with a socket wrench.


2. Insert a large screwdriver through the brake caliper and between the vanes of the brake rotor to prevent it from turning. Remove the extension bolts from the front wheel hub with a socket wrench, and disconnect the wheel hub extension from the vehicle.


3. Remove the front brake caliper from the wheel hub with the mounting bracket still attached. Support this assembly with mechanic's wire to avoid placing stress on the brake lines.


4. Insert jackscrews into the holes of the brake rotor and tighten them evenly to separate the brake rotor from the wheel hub. Remove the brake rotor from the hub.


5. Install the new brake rotor onto the hub, and attach the brake caliper assembly to the rotor. Tighten the mounting bolts for the brake caliper to 129 foot-pounds with a torque wrench if your vehicle has six bolts and 221 foot-pounds if your vehicle has eight mounting bolts.


6. Install the wheel and tires. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle with a floor jack. Replace the brake fluid in the master brake cylinder.