I maybe replacing pads and rotors for first time myself. Have done it with help awhile back on a 2000 Chevy Express. What all is different? I do have a metric allen socket set on the way(atd tools). Suggestions? Tips?
My advice would be to look up a youtube video on how to do it for that specific vehicle. That way you know the process and what tools you will need before doing the job.
Nice thing about brakes is that there's only one way they will go together. You really can't do it wrong.
Being in PA, make sure you thoroughly clean and lube the caliper bracket before you put it back together. Special attention to the guide pins and the notches that the pad hardware clip into. The goal is to keep everything corrosion free and un-seized for the life of the brakes.
Save a brake pad and use that with a c clamp to compress the piston, make sure it's even and going in easy.
Also use blue loctite on all hardware with a torque wrench. I didn't and one time I had a brake caliper bracket come loose and destroy a wheel which stranded me. So don't be me.
My advice: get coated rotors, something with a coating to deter rust. This will help a lot! Popular choices include Centric Premium, Wagner E-Shield (part numbers ending in E), and EBC rotors
For pads, get Akebono, or Wagner OEX
You may want to flush the brake fluid, too. Speed bleeders are awesome