Removing the front brake rotor from your Toyota 4Runner involves removal of the brake caliper and a few associated parts. The job can be completed with basic hand tools, and a new rotor can be purchased from the Toyota dealership or from most auto parts stores. The rotors should be replaced in pairs for best performance, but one can be installed if necessary. Rotors can be damaged by overly worn brake pads so be sure to change the pads before they start to show rivets through the brake material.
Loosen the lug nuts on the front tires but don't remove them yet. Position a jack under the truck and raise the front end off the ground. Support the vehicle by inserting jack stands under the frame then setting the truck on them. Remove the tires from the truck and set them out of the way.
Remove the mounting bolts from the back of the brake caliper. There are two bolts, and they can be removed with a socket and ratchet or a wrench. Remove the caliper from the mounting bracket and support the caliper with a piece of wire or string so that it hangs out of the way.
Remove the six bolts on the grease cover in the center of the front hub with a socket and ratchet. Remove the grease cover, exposing the spindle nut and lock washer under the cover.
Release the lock tang on the lock washer by bending the tang up with a flat screwdriver. Remove the spindle nut using a spindle nut socket and a breaker bar. This nut is very large; you can get the specialty socket to fit it at many auto parts stores.
Remove the hub by sliding it straight out and off the spindle. The outer bearing, thrust washer, rotor and hub will all come off as a unit.
