Drive Pinion: 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.

Remove the differential case. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CASE .

CAUTION: Record the torque necessary to maintain rotation of the drive pinion gear through several revolutions prior to removing the pinion flange.

Remove the pinion flange. For additional information, refer to DRIVE PINION FLANGE .
Using a screwdriver, force the rear axle drive pinion seal metal flange up and strike it with a hammer.

Fig 1: Prying Rear Axle Drive Pinion Seal Metal Flange Up
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using gripping pliers and a hammer, remove the rear axle drive pinion seal.

Fig 2: Removing Rear Axle Drive Pinion Seal
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the rear axle drive pinion shaft oil slinger.
Using the special tool and a soft-faced hammer, drive the pinion assembly out of the outer pinion bearing and remove it through the rear of the differential housing.

Fig 3: Driving Pinion Assembly Out Of Outer Differential Pinion Bearing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the outer pinion bearing.
Remove the drive pinion collapsible spacer and discard it.

Fig 4: Removing Drive Pinion Collapsible Spacer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool and a suitable press, remove the pinion bearing.

Fig 5: Removing Pinion Bearing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Do not remove the pinion bearing cups from the differential housing unless the cups are damaged.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Bearing Cups

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a brass drift, remove the pinion bearing cups by tapping alternately on opposite sides of the cups.