Axle Housing: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford RV Cutaway, 2002 Ford Econoline, 2002 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2002 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle.
Remove the four bolts.

Fig 1: Removing Driveshaft To Pinion Flange Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the yoke from the flange.

Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the rear axle pinion flange.
- Position the driveshaft out of the way.
  
  Fig 2: Disconnecting Driveshaft Centering Socket Yoke
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the axle shafts (4234). For additional information, refer to AXLE SHAFT .
- Remove the brake backing plates and wire them aside. Do not disconnect the brake tubing.
Disconnect the rear brake anti-lock sensor electrical connector.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Rear Brake Anti-Lock Sensor Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Disconnect the vent hose (4A001).

Fig 4: Disconnecting Vent Hose
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the bolt.

Fig 5: Removing Line Fitting From Axle
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Separate all parking brake cable and brake lines from the rear axle housing (4010).

Fig 6: Removing Parking Brake Cable/Brake Lines Brackets From Axle
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 7: Removing Brake Lines From Axle
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the brake line from the brake line retaining clip.

Fig 8: Removing Brake Line From Axle Retaining Clip
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Support the rear axle with a suitable transmission jack.

Fig 9: Supporting Rear Axle With Suitable Transmission Jack
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the lower shock absorber nuts and bolts (one on each side).

Fig 10: Removing Shock Absorber From Lower Mount
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the rear axle U-bolt assembly.
1. Remove the rear spring plate nuts.
2. Remove the two rear spring plate U-bolts.
3. Remove the rear spring plate.
4. Repeat the procedure for the other side.
Fig 11: Removing Two Rear Spring Plate U-Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Raise the vehicle until it is clear of the rear axle (4001).