Differential Bearings: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Ford Pickup and 2011 Ford Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the differential carrier assembly. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER .
Using the Differential Carrier Bearing Collects, Differential Carrier Bearing Step Plate, Differential Carrier Bearing Retaining Ring, Bearing Tube Remover/Installer and Bearing Tube Removal Screw, remove the differential bearings.
- Place the left and right differential bearing shims with the respective outboard spacers.
Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearings Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To maintain driveline balance, index-mark the driveshaft flange and the pinion flange.

Fig 2: Locating Index-Mark On Driveshaft Flange And Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 4 driveshaft flange bolts.

Fig 3: Locating Driveshaft Flange Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a suitable tool as shown in illustration, disconnect the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft using mechanic's wire.
NOTE: The driveshaft flange fits tightly on the pinion flange. Using a suitable tool, pry only in the area shown to disconnect the driveshaft flange or damage to the driveshaft may occur.

NOTE: It may be necessary to tap the driveshaft flange with a plastic or rubber soft-faced hammer if a pry area is not on the driveshaft flange.

NOTE: Do not allow the driveshaft to hang unsupported.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange From Pinion Flange Using Suitable Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Use the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture to prevent the flange from turning, remove and discard the pinion shaft locknut and washer.
NOTE: Index-mark the pinion flange to the pinion shaft prior to removal.

Fig 5: Removing Pinion Shaft Locknut Using Suitable Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the 2 Jaw Puller, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Drive Pinion Thread Protector, drive the pinion from the outer pinion bearing and remove it through the rear of the axle housing.
NOTE: There are drive pinion bearing preload shims on the splined-end of the pinion shaft. These drive pinion bearing preload shims can stick to the pinion shaft, the pinion bearing or they can fall out of the axle housing. Collect and keep the drive pinion bearing preload shims for reassembly.

Fig 7: Removing Pinion From Outer Pinion Bearing Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Bearing Puller and a suitable press, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 8: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Slide Hammer and Bushing Remover, remove and discard the drive pinion seal.

Fig 9: Removing Drive Pinion Seal Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the drive pinion oil slinger, the outer drive pinion bearing and the pinion preload adjustment shims.
Using the Rear Wheel Hub Bearing Cup Remover and Handle, remove the outer pinion bearing cup.
NOTE: Do not nick the axle housing bore or damage to the component may occur.

Fig 10: Removing Outer Pinion Bearing Cup Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Drive Pinion Inner Bearing Remover and Handle, remove the inner pinion bearing cup.

Fig 11: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Cup Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.