Side Shaft Gear Assembly - Front Wheel Drive (FWD): Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Montego, 2005 Ford Freestyle, and 2005 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: MERCON®, MERCON®V, MERCON®SP, Motorcraft Premium Automatic Transmission Fluid and Motorcraft Continuously Variable Chain Type Transmission Fluid are not interchangeable transmission fluids. The use of any fluid other than what is recommended for this transmission will cause transmission damage.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Remove the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) tube.

Fig 1: Removing Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Tube
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the side shaft gear assembly dust cover.

Fig 2: Removing Side Shaft Gear Assembly Dust Cover
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the 4 bolts and remove the side shaft gear assembly.

Fig 3: Removing Bolts And Side Shaft Gear Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the side shaft gear assembly O-ring seal.

Fig 4: Removing Side Shaft Gear Assembly O-Ring Seal
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the side shaft gear assembly for damage. If damage is indicated, install new components. For additional information, refer to SIDE SHAFT GEAR ASSEMBLY .