Differential Case and Ring Gear - Two-Piece, Conventional: Disassembly

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

Remove the differential carrier. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER .
Remove and discard the 12 ring gear bolts.

Fig 1: Locating Ring Gear Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Insert a punch in the bolt holes and drive off the ring gear.

Fig 2: Identifying Ring Gear
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position the Differential Clutch Preload Gauge in a vise.

Fig 3: Positioning Differential Clutch Preload Gauge Using Required Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Position the differential case on the Differential Clutch Preload Gauge.

Fig 4: Positioning Differential Case On Differential Clutch Preload Gauge
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Index-mark the differential case halves.

Fig 5: Marking Differential Case Halves
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture on the differential case as shown in illustration and loosen the 9 differential case bolts.
NOTE: Attach the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture with a bolt and nut.

Fig 6: Loosening Differential Case Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the 9 differential case bolts.

Fig 7: Locating Differential Case Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the right differential case half and differential side gear.

Fig 8: View Of Right Differential Case Half
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the differential pinion shaft and differential pinion gears.

Fig 9: View Of Differential Pinion Shaft And Gears
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the left differential side gear and the differential side gear thrust washers.

Fig 10: View Of Left Differential Side Gear
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.