Differential Bearings: Removal

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 .
Using the Differential Carrier Bearing Step Plate, Differential Carrier Bearing Collects, Differential Carrier Bearing Retaining Ring, Bearing Tube Remover and Bearing Tube Removal Screw, remove the differential bearings.

Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearings Using Special Tools
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Differential Carrier Bearing Installer, install the new differential bearings on the differential case.

Fig 2: Installing Differential Bearing Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To maintain driveline balance, index-mark the driveshaft flange yoke and the pinion flange.

Fig 3: Locating Driveshaft Flange Yoke Marking
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 4 bolts.

Fig 4: Locating Driveshaft Flange Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a suitable tool as shown in illustration, disconnect the driveshaft flange yoke from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft using mechanic's wire.
NOTE: The driveshaft flange yoke fits tightly on the pinion flange yoke. Pry only in the area shown in illustration, with a suitable tool, to disconnect the yoke from the flange.

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

NOTE: Do not allow the driveshaft to hang unsupported.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange Yoke From Pinion Flange Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture to prevent the flange from turning, remove and discard the pinion nut.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Nut Using Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Index-mark the pinion flange to the pinion shaft prior to removal.

Fig 7: View Of Pinion Flange Marking
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the 2 Jaw Puller, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 8: Removing Pinion Flange Using Jaw Puller
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Force up on the metal flange of the rear axle drive pinion seal. Install gripping pliers to the seal flange and strike with a hammer until the rear axle drive pinion seal is removed.
- Remove the oil slinger and the outer pinion bearing.
Fig 9: Removing Rear Axle Drive Pinion Seal
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the Drive Pinion Thread Protector and, with a soft-faced hammer, drive the pinion out of the front bearing cone and remove it through the rear of the housing.

Fig 10: Removing Pinion Out Of Front Bearing Cone Using Hammer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Bearing Puller and a suitable press, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 11: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a brass drift, remove the pinion bearing cups by tapping alternately on opposite sides of the cups.

Fig 12: Locating Pinion Bearing Cups
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.