Axle Shaft: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Lincoln Mark LT and 2007 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING article.
Remove the rear wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to WHEELS AND TIRES article.
Remove the rear brake disc. For additional information, refer to REAR DISC BRAKE article.
Remove the differential housing cover and drain the lubricant. For additional information, refer to Differential Housing Cover in this article.
Remove the differential pinion shaft.
1. Remove and discard the 1 bolt.
2. Remove the differential pinion shaft.

Fig 1: Removing Differential Pinion Shaft

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not damage the rubber O-ring in the U-washer groove.

Remove the U-washer.
1. Push the axle shaft inboard.
2. Remove the U-washer.

Fig 2: Removing The U-Washer

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not damage the wheel bearing oil seal.

Remove the axle shaft.

Fig 3: Removing The Axle Shaft

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.