Drive Pinion Flange and Drive Pinion Seal: 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.

CAUTION: The color on the rear face of the drive pinion nut is critical to this repair. Use the same color new drive pinion nut for installation. If a new collapsible spacer must be installed for pinion bearing preload reduction, install the nut supplied with the new spacer or damage to the component may occur.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING article.
Remove the brake disc. For additional information, refer to REAR DISC BRAKE article.
Remove the driveshaft. For additional information, refer to DRIVESHAFT article.
Using a Nm (lb-in) torque wrench on the pinion nut, record the torque required to maintain rotation of the pinion gear through several revolutions.

Fig 1: Rotating Pinion Gear

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool to hold the pinion flange, remove and discard the pinion nut.

Fig 2: Holding Pinion Flange Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Index-mark the pinion flange in relation to the drive pinion stem to make sure of correct alignment during installation.

Fig 3: Placing Index Marks On Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 4: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Force up on the metal flange of the drive pinion seal. Install gripping pliers and strike with a hammer until the drive pinion seal is removed.

Fig 5: Removing Drive Pinion Oil Seal

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.