Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Mercury Milan, 2011 Lincoln MKZ, and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Index-mark both the driveshaft flanges.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING article.
NOTE: Make sure to adequately support the exhaust flex pipe or damage may occur.
Remove and discard the 2 nuts and separate the exhaust system at the flex pipe.
- Install new nuts and tighten to 40 Nm (30 lb-ft).
Fig 1: Identifying Exhaust Flex Pipe
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Support the exhaust system and disconnect the 2 front exhaust hangers from the exhaust system.

Fig 2: Identifying Supported Exhaust System And 2 Front Exhaust Hangers
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Carefully lower the exhaust system to allow clearance for removal of the driveshaft.

Fig 3: Identifying Bracket Fasteners
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not reuse the CV joint bolts.

Fig 4: Locating Driveshaft-To-Power Transfer Unit (PTU) Flange Bolt

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove and discard the 4 front driveshaft-to-Power Transfer Unit (PTU) flange bolts.
- Install new bolts and tighten to 70 Nm (52 lb-ft).
Using a suitable pry bar as shown in illustration, separate the driveshaft flange from the PTU flange.

Fig 5: Separating Driveshaft Flange From PTU Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not reuse the bolts for the rear U-joint flange. Install new bolts or damage to the component may occur.

Fig 6: Locating Index Marks On Rear Driveshaft And U-Joint Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove and discard the 4 rear driveshaft-to-pinion flange bolts.
- Install new bolts and tighten to 70 Nm (52 lb-ft).
With the help of an assistant, remove the 4 center bearing support nuts and the driveshaft.
- To install, tighten to 55 Nm (41 lb-ft).
Fig 7: Locating Center Bearing Support Nuts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: If a driveshaft is installed and driveshaft vibration is encountered after installation, index the driveshaft. For additional information, refer to DRIVELING SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION article.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.