If you’re looking to remove your 2009-2014 F-150’s interior door panels, you’ve come to the right place. Gather your tools and follow these tips for getting the job done right.
Before you get started, you’ll want the following tools on hand:
Let’s get started:
Rocker panels are a key part of your vehicle’s structural integrity. A damaged panel can weaken the cab structure and affect a truck’s stability and safety. You should inspect your rocker panels regularly to make sure they are free from rust and damage and move quickly to make necessary repairs. Learning how to install new rocker panels will extend the life of your truck and keep it on the road. While replacing your rocker panels isn’t the most simple project for a beginner, you can do it if you use the correct replacement rocker panels and the right tools, and have a little patience.
Old, dirty brake fluid can reduce the effectiveness of your truck’s brakes. To ensure your brake fluid is clean and free from moisture, air, and dirt, it is important to occasionally flush your old brake fluid and replace it with new fluid. You can do this at home on your Silverado or Sierra by following these steps for making a simple DIY brake fluid pressure bleeder.
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All of these together typically cost under $25. Once you’ve built your pressure bleeder, you’ll need the following tools to bleed the brakes on your Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra pickup:
You probably have most of these things laying around the garage; however, we suggest you purchase a new sprayer since any water or dirt left in your old sprayer can contaminate your brake fluid.
While you can find brake bleeder kits for sale in auto parts stores, we have a cheap and easy alternative. Almost any inexpensive garden sprayer you’ll find in a garden center or hardware store will work for this project. Aim for one gallon or smaller, since you won’t need more than two or three quarts of fluid.
If possible, choose a sprayer with a pressure-relief valve. This makes it easier to remove the pressure in your sprayer when you’re done. The purpose of your pressure brake bleeder is to pressurize the brake fluid in the sprayer and force it through your brake system. Make sure you follow all the instructions for making the bleeder airtight.
There are two major tasks to be done: One is to create the pressure cap that installs on the master cylinder reservoir, and the other is to attach this pressure cap to your sprayer.
Your brake fluid pressure bleeder is now ready to use. It’s important to use enough RTV sealant to fully seal your pressure bleeder because any leaks can allow air bubbles to enter your brake fluid. This can cause spongy brakes. Follow the drying times on your RTV sealant. We suggest making your brake bleeder the day before you plan to bleed your brakes so it can dry overnight.
Tip: If there is a prominent ridge or seam on the inside of your new reservoir cap you may want to smooth this out with RTV sealant and let it dry completely before you attempt to drill into it to make the hole for the hose fitting.
Once your pressure bleeder is completed, it’s time to put it to work. While a sprayer with a pressure gauge can be useful (to create approximately 20 psi of pressure), it isn’t necessary. If your brake fluid stops flowing, you can always pump your sprayer again to create more pressure.
Follow these steps to attach your pressure bleeder to your braking system and purge the worn and contaminated brake fluid from your brake lines:
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You’ll need to perform steps 7 to 10 for each wheel.
All that’s left to do is remove your pressure bleeder cap from your truck, verify the level of your brake fluid and replace the original cap. You’re ready to hit the road again and harness the full braking power of your Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra.
Do you have any tips or tricks for bleeding your brakes? Let us know in the comments below!
A leak, a clogged coolant tube or damaged/corroded fins in your radiator are a big hassle. They result in a lack of coolant that can make your engine overheat and cause significant damage. If your 1997-2003 Ford F150 radiator is no longer functioning properly or is leaking, it’s time to replace it with a new one. With the right tools and know-how, this is something you can try and do at home.
Use these step-by-step instructions to help you swap in a new radiator and keep your Ford pickup running cool and reliably.
Before you get started on your F150 radiator replacement, make sure you have all of the materials and tools you need. Start by purchasing the replacement radiator for your model of truck. Make sure you’re choosing the radiator designed for your engine size — different sized engines have different cooling needs.
Removing Your Old Radiator
Make sure you start your radiator replacement project when your truck is cool, as hot coolant can be under pressure and cause burns. While you can drain the coolant first, it is easier if you start by removing the plastic cover over the radiator to give you more access to the coolant drain:
Before removing the fan shroud, we suggest removing the air intake ducting. This will give you easier access to your radiator:
Now you can remove the fan shroud:
Now it’s time to remove the radiator itself:
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All that’s left to do is install your new radiator:
Your 1997-2003 Ford F150 radiator removal and reinstallation is complete! Your truck is now ready for many more miles of reliable — and cool — use. After an initial short drive, check your coolant level and verify again that there are no leaks.
Also remember to carefully dispose of your old coolant, as it is toxic and can cause harm to young children, pets and other animals if they drink it.
Rocker panels are some of the most vital components of a truck’s body, and they take a beating from daily use and the elements. Rusted-out rocker panels can expose your vehicle’s frame rails, accelerating corrosion in this area. That means they need to remain in solid, rust-free shape throughout ownership.
Rocker panel replacements come in two styles — slip-on and full. Slip-on panels go over the top of an existing rocker, while full rocker panels are meant to be a replacement. Both have pros and cons, and choosing the right panel for your needs and capabilities is important if you replace them yourself.
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