Drive Pinion Flange: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

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

Fig 1: Marking Driveshaft Flange & Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the four driveshaft bolts.

Fig 2: Removing Driveshaft 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 From Rear Axle Pinion Flange

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 aside.
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.

Fig 4: Checking 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

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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

Fig 6: Marking Pinion Flange In Relation To Drive Pinion Stem
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

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