Drive Pinion Flange: Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford RV Cutaway, 2004 Ford Econoline, 2004 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2004 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Lubricate the pinion flange splines with rear axle lubricant.
- Align the pinion flange with the drive pinion shaft.
- With the drive pinion in place in the rear axle housing, install the pinion flange using the special tool.
- Position the new pinion nut.
- Using the special tool to hold the pinion flange, tighten the pinion nut.
- Rotate the pinion occasionally to make sure the bearings are seating correctly.
- Install a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench on the pinion nut.
- Rotating the pinion through several revolutions, take frequent bearing torque preload readings until the original recorded preload reading is obtained.
- If the original recorded preload is lower than specifications, tighten to the appropriate specifications for used bearings. If the preload is higher than specification, tighten the nut to the original reading as recorded. For additional information, refer to TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
- Position the rear driveshaft and align the marks on the pinion flange.
- Install the new bolts and tighten to specification.
- Install the disc brake calipers. For additional information, refer to DISC & DRUM .
- Install the rear wheel and tire assemblies. For additional information, refer to DISC & DRUM .
NOTE:
Disregard the scribe marks if a new pinion flange is being installed.
CAUTION:
Under no circumstances is the pinion nut to be backed off to reduce preload. If reduced preload is required, a new collapsible spacer and pinion nut must be installed.
CAUTION:
The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle pinion flange pilot. To make sure that the yoke seats squarely on the flange, tighten the bolts evenly in a cross pattern as shown.