Differential Carrier - Front Axle: Removal

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

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Remove the axle assembly. For additional information, refer to FRONT AXLE ASSEMBLY .
Remove the differential housing cover bolts and the differential housing cover.
Remove the differential bearing caps.
1. Remove the differential bearing cap bolts.
2. Remove and identify the differential bearing caps.
Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearing Cap Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the special tool.

Fig 2: Installing Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the axle assembly into the bench fixture.

Fig 3: Installing Axle Assembly Into Bench Fixture
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the special tools.

Fig 4: Installing Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Overspreading can damage the differential housing.

Fig 5: Spreading Differential Housing To Specification

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Spread the differential housing to the specification.
1. Adjust the special tool to zero.
2. Tighten the differential carrier spreader screw.
3. Remove the dial indicator.

CAUTION: Use wood blocks to avoid damaging the differential housing.

Fig 6: Removing Differential Assembly From Housing

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the differential assembly from the housing.
1. Position the wood blocks.
2. Push downward on the pry bars.
3. Remove the differential assembly.
4. Remove the special tool.