Differential Case and Ring Gear - Traction-Lok®: Disassembly

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.

Remove the differential case (4204). For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CASE .
Remove the 10 ring gear bolts.

Fig 1: Removing Ring Gear Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Care should be taken not to damage the ring bolt hole threads.

Fig 2: Removing Ring Gear

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Insert a punch in the bolt holes and drive the ring gear off.

NOTE: The anti-lock speed sensor ring cannot be reused once removed. Only remove the speed sensor ring, if damaged.

Fig 3: Removing Speed Sensor Ring

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the speed sensor ring, if required.
Using the special tools, remove the differential bearing.
- Repeat for the other side.
  
  Fig 4: Removing Differential Bearing
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the differential pinion shaft lock bolt and remove the differential pinion shaft.

Fig 5: Removing Differential Pinion Shaft
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

WARNING: Due to the spring tension, care must be used when removing the differential clutch spring.

Fig 6: Removing Differential Clutch Spring

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the differential clutch spring.
Remove the differential gears.
1. Remove the two differential pinion gears.
2. Remove the two differential side gears.
3. Remove the two differential pinion thrust washers.
  
  Fig 7: Removing Differential Gears
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Keep the differential clutch packs in order. Do not mix them. They must be reassembled in the same sequence.

Remove the differential clutch packs and differential side gears and tag them "right" and "left" with the shim.
- Clean and inspect the remaining parts of the differential case for wear or damage and install new parts as necessary.
  
  Fig 8: Removing Differential Clutch Packs
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not use acids or solvents when cleaning the differential clutch pack. Wipe components with a clean, lint-free cloth only.

Clean and inspect the differential clutch packs for wear and install new parts as necessary.