Drive Pinion: Removal

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

Remove the differential case. Refer to DIFFERENTIAL CASE .
Remove the rear driveshaft. Refer to DRIVESHAFT .

CAUTION: Index-mark the pinion flange to the pinion shaft prior to removal.

Fig 1: Removing Pinion Lock Nut And Washer Using Suitable Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool to prevent the flange from turning, remove the pinion lock nut and washer.
Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 2: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: There are drive pinion preload shims on the spline end of the pinion. These shims can stick to the pinion, the pinion bearing or they can fall out of the differential housing. Collect and keep the shims for reassembly.

Fig 3: Removing Pinion Using Special Tools

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a soft faced hammer and the special tool, tap the pinion out of the pinion bearing cup and remove it through the rear of the differential housing.
Using the special tools, remove and discard the pinion seal.

Fig 4: Removing Pinion Seal Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not nick the differential housing bore.

Fig 5: Removing Outer Pinion Bearing Cup Using Special Tools

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tools, remove the outer pinion bearing cup.
Using the special tools, remove the inner pinion bearing cup.

Fig 6: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Cup Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tools, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 7: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Discard the drive pinion position shim if bent or nicked. If discarding the shim, measure and record the shim thickness.

Remove the oil slinger, if equipped, and the drive pinion position shim.