Differential Bearings: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Ford Pickup and 2006 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the differential carrier assembly. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER .
Using the special tools, remove the differential bearings.
- Place the left and right differential bearing shims with the respective outboard spacers.
  
  Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearings Using Special Tools
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To maintain driveline balance, index-mark the driveshaft flange and the pinion flange.

Fig 2: Identifying Index-Mark On Driveshaft Flange To Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 4 bolts.

Fig 3: Identifying Driveshaft Flange and Rear Axle Pinion Flange Bolts And Alignment Marks
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: The driveshaft flange fits tightly on the pinion flange. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the flange.

CAUTION: It may be necessary to tap the driveshaft flange with a plastic or rubber soft-faced hammer if a pry area is not on the driveshaft flange.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange Yoke From Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft using mechanic's wire.

NOTE: Index-mark the pinion flange to the pinion shaft prior to removal.

Fig 5: Holding Pinion Flange With Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Use the special tool to prevent the flange from turning, remove the locknut and washer.
Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: There are drive pinion bearing preload shims on the splined-end of the pinion shaft. These drive pinion bearing preload shims can stick to the pinion shaft, the pinion bearing or they can fall out of the axle housing. Collect and keep the drive pinion bearing preload shims for reassembly.

Fig 7: Driving Pinion From Outer Pinion Bearing

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, drive the pinion from the outer pinion bearing and remove it through the rear of the axle housing.
Using the special tool and a suitable press, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 8: Inner Pinion Bearing And Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tools, remove and discard the drive pinion seal.

Fig 9: Removing Pinion Seal Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the drive pinion oil slinger, the outer drive pinion bearing and the pinion preload adjustment shims.

CAUTION: Do not nick the axle housing bore.

Fig 10: Removing Outer Pinion Bearing Cup

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tools, remove the outer pinion bearing cup.
Using the special tools, remove the inner pinion bearing cup.

Fig 11: Identifying Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.