Drive Pinion Flange: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Lubricate the pinion flange splines with rear axle lubricant.
- Position the pinion flange.
- Using the special tool, install the pinion flange.
- Position the new nut.
- Use the special tool to hold the pinion flange while tightening the nut.
- Rotate the pinion occasionally to make sure the differential pinion bearings (4621) (4630) seat correctly. Take frequent differential pinion bearing preload readings by rotating the pinion with a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench.
- If the preload recorded prior to disassembly is lower than the specification for used bearings, then tighten the nut to specification. If the preload recorded prior to disassembly is higher than the specification for used bearings, then tighten the nut to the original reading as recorded.
- Refer to torque specifications for used pinion bearings in the SPECIFICATIONS .
- Position the driveshaft flange on the pinion flange with the index marks aligned, and install the bolts.
- Install the brake drums. For additional information, refer to DISC & DRUM .
- Install the rear wheel and tire assemblies.
NOTE:
Disregard the index marks if installing a new pinion flange.
CAUTION:
Do not under any circumstance loosen the nut to reduce preload. If it is necessary to reduce preload, install a new collapsible spacer (4662) and nut.
CAUTION:
Remove the special tool while taking preload readings with the Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench.
CAUTION:
Align the index marks.
CAUTION:
If new bolts to retain the driveshaft to the axle are not available, coat the threads of the original bolts with threadlock.
CAUTION:
The driveshaft flange fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. To make sure that the driveshaft flange seats squarely on the pinion flange, tighten the bolts evenly in a cross pattern as shown.