Drive Pinion Flange: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford RV Cutaway, 2002 Ford Econoline, 2002 Ford E550 Super Duty, 2002 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2002 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Raise and support the vehicle.
- Remove the rear wheel and tire assemblies. For additional information, refer to WHEELS & TIRES .
- Remove the brake drums. For additional information, refer to DISC & DRUM .
- Mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange (4851) for correct alignment during installation.
- Remove the four bolts.
- Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the rear axle pinion flange.
- Position the driveshaft out of the way.
- Install a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench on the pinion nut and record the torque required to maintain rotation of the pinion through several revolutions.
- Use the special tool to hold the pinion flange while removing the pinion nut.
- Mark the driveshaft pinion flange in relation to the drive pinion stem to make sure of correct alignment during installation.
- Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.
CAUTION:
Remove the brake drums to prevent brake drag during drive pinion bearing preload adjustment.
CAUTION:
The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the yoke from the flange.
CAUTION:
After removal of the pinion nut, discard it. A new nut must be used for installation.