Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Index-mark the driveshaft flange (4782) and rear axle pinion flange.

Fig 1: Index Marking Driveshaft Flange & Rear Axle Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Index -mark the driveshaft (4602) and the extension housing.

Fig 2: Index Marking Driveshaft & Extension Housing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the four bolts.

Fig 3: Removing Driveshaft-To-Rear Axle Flange Pinion Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: The driveshaft flange fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange. Pry only in the area shown, with a suitable tool, to disconnect the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange From Rear Axle Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft flange from the rear axle pinion flange.
Lower the driveshaft and slide it off the output shaft.
Plug the extension housing to prevent fluid loss.

CAUTION: If new bolts to retain the driveshaft to the axle are not available, coat the threads of the original bolts with Threadlock and Sealer EOAZ-19554-AA or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSK-M2G351-A5.

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.

Fig 5: Installing Driveshaft-To-Rear Axle Flange Pinion Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.