Differential Bearings: 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.

Remove the differential carrier assembly. For additional information, refer to Differential Carrier in this article.
Index-mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange for correct alignment during installation.

Fig 1: Identifying Index-Mark Driveshaft Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the 4 driveshaft flange bolts.

Fig 2: Removing The 4 Driveshaft Flange Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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

Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the pinion flange.
- Using mechanic's wire, position the driveshaft aside.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange Yoke From Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Discard the nut after removal. Use a new nut during installation.

Use the special tool to hold the pinion flange while removing the drive pinion nut.

Fig 4: Holding Pinion Flange Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Index-mark the pinion flange and the drive pinion stem for correct alignment during installation.

Fig 5: Placing Index Marks On Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a screwdriver, force up the rear axle drive pinion seal metal flange.

Fig 7: Forcing Up The Rear Axle Drive Pinion Seal Metal Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using gripping pliers and a hammer, remove the axle drive pinion seal.
Remove the axle drive pinion shaft oil slinger.

Fig 8: Removing Drive Pinion Oil Seal

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool and a soft-faced hammer, drive the pinion assembly out of the outer pinion bearing and remove it through the rear of the differential housing.

Fig 9: Driving Pinion Assembly Out Of Axle Housing Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the outer pinion bearing.
Remove the drive pinion collapsible spacer and discard it.

Fig 10: Removing The Drive Pinion Collapsible Spacer

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool and a suitable press, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 11: Inner Pinion Bearing And Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a brass drift, remove the pinion bearing cups by tapping alternately on opposite sides of the bearing cups.

Fig 12: Removing The Pinion Bearing Cups

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tools, remove the 2 differential bearings.

Fig 13: Removing Differential Bearings

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.