Removal (Bronco, Pickup, Ranger & Van)
- Raise and support vehicle. Remove wheel assembly and brake drum. Manufacturer recommends removing the brake backing plates so that the brake lines are not disconnected. Remove the axle shaft. See AXLE SHAFT & BEARING under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Remove retaining nuts and brake backing plates.
- Disconnect vent hose from axle housing. Disengage brake lines from clips on axle housing. Remove hydraulic brake junction block from axle housing. DO NOT disconnect brake lines from block. Place reference mark on drive shaft flanges for reassembly reference. Remove drive shaft. Install plug in transmission extension housing to prevent oil leakage.
- Support axle housing with floor jack. Remove retaining nuts and disconnect shock absorbers from plates on axle housing. Remove nuts, "U" bolts and plates. Lower floor jack and remove axle housing.