Differential Case and Ring Gear - Conventional: Disassembly

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

Remove the differential carrier. For additional information, refer to Differential Carrier .

Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearings Using Special Tools

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tools, remove and discard the differential bearings.
- Place the left and right differential bearing shims with the respective outboard spacers.

Fig 2: Ring Gear Bolts (4 Remaining)

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Whenever removing the differential ring gear bolts, always install new Grade 9 differential ring gear bolts.

Remove 8 of the differential ring gear bolts. Leave 4 differential ring gear bolts loosely assembled, 90 degrees apart.

Fig 3: Tapping Ring Gear Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Tap each differential ring gear bolt head alternately with a rawhide or plastic hammer to loosen the differential ring gear. Remove the 4 differential ring gear bolts and the differential ring gear.
- Discard the differential ring gear bolts.

NOTE: Use a vise with brass jaws or wood blocks.

Place the differential case in a vise.

Fig 4: Differential Pinion Shaft Lockpin

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool, drive out the differential pinion shaft lockpin.

Fig 5: Differential Pinion Shaft

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool, remove the differential pinion shaft.

Fig 6: Differential Side Gears & Differential Pinion Gears

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

To remove the differential side gears and the differential pinion gears, rotate the differential side gears. The differential pinion gears will turn to the opening in the differential case.
Remove the differential pinion gears and the differential pinion thrust washers.
Lift out the differential side gears and the differential side gear thrust washers.