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.

NOTE: The rear wheels (1007) and brake drums (1126) must be removed to prevent brake drag during drive pinion bearing preload adjustment.

Remove the rear brake drums. For additional information, refer to DISC & DRUM .
Mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange for correct alignment during installation.

Fig 1: Aligning Driveshaft Flange And Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the four bolts.

Fig 2: Removing Four Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Driveshaft Centering Socket Yoke

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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 torque wrench on the pinion nut and record the torque required to maintain rotation of the pinion through several revolutions.

Fig 4: Measuring Pinion Rotational Torque
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: After removal of the pinion nut, discard it. A new nut must be used for installation.

Fig 5: Removing Pinion Nut Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tool, hold the pinion flange and remove the pinion nut.
Mark the pinion flange in relation to the drive pinion stem to ensure correct alignment during installation.

Fig 6: Aligning Drive Pinion Stem
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 7: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.