Pinion Flange, Dust Deflector & Oil Seal: Removal

Unlock steering column. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheel assembly. Remove and support front brake caliper. Remove brake pads and caliper bracket. Remove rotor. Remove front axle skid plate. Mark position of drive shaft and pinion flange to ensure correct installation. Remove bolts and retainers from pinion flange. Remove drive shaft from pinion flange, and wire aside.
Measure and record amount of torque required to rotate pinion for reassembly. Mark pinion flange, pinion shaft and pinion nut to ensure alignment and bearing preload are maintained on installation. Record number of exposed threads on pinion shaft for reassembly. Using Pinion Flange Remover Set (J-8614-01), hold pinion flange stationary and remove pinion flange nut and washer. Place drain pan under pinion area of differential carrier. Remove pinion flange and oil seal. Remove dust deflector if necessary. See Figure.
Clean pinion flange in solvent and inspect seal surface of pinion flange for nicks, burrs or damage (such as a groove worn into pinion flange by oil seal). Repair or replace as necessary.