Driveshaft Center Bearing: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the driveshaft from the vehicle. For additional information, refer to Driveshaft - Rear Two-Piece .

CAUTION: Do not, under any circumstance, clamp the driveshaft or the coupling shaft in the jaws of a vise or similar holding fixture. Damage or localizing fracture may result, causing driveshaft failure during vehicle operation.

Place the driveshaft assembly on a suitable workbench. Do not damage the tubes.
Remove the driveshaft slip-yoke from the coupling shaft in the following sequence.
1. Cut and discard the driveshaft slip-yoke boot clamps.
2. Remove the driveshaft slip-yoke from the coupling shaft.
Remove the slip-yoke boot from the coupling shaft.
- Inspect the boot for damage. Install a new slip-yoke boot as necessary.

Fig 1: Driveshaft Slip-Yoke Boot

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Inspect the lubricant on the coupling shaft splines and in the driveshaft slip-yoke for contamination. If contaminated, inspect the coupling shaft splines and the driveshaft slip-yoke for wear or damage. Install new components as necessary.
Remove the center bearing retainer, the center bearing bracket and the rubber insulator from the coupling shaft.
1. Remove the center bearing retainer.
2. Remove the center bearing bracket.
3. Remove the rubber insulator.

Fig 2: Exploded View Of Center Bearing Retainer, Center Bearing Bracket & Rubber Insulator

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable press, remove the center bearing and bearing retainer from the coupling shaft.

Fig 3: Center Bearing & Bearing Retainer

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Press the dust slinger off the coupling shaft.

Fig 4: Dust Slinger

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.