Differential Carrier: 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.

All vehicles

Remove the axle shafts. For additional information, refer to WHEEL HUBS AND BEARINGS - FULL FLOATING AXLE - FORD .
Remove the 12 differential cover bolts and the differential cover.

Fig 1: Locating Differential Housing Cover Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the 4 differential bearing cap bolts and the 2 differential bearing caps.
NOTE: Index-mark the position of the differential bearing caps, as arrows may not be visible. The differential bearing caps must be installed in their original locations and positions.

Fig 2: Locating Differential Bearing Cap Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

ELD equipped vehicles
Disconnect the ELD electrical connector and remove the bolt that holds the connector adapter to the housing.

Fig 3: Locating ELD Electrical Connector Bolt
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Pull the connector adapter out and disconnect the ELD coil electrical connector from the connector adapter. Discard the adapter.

Fig 4: Locating ELD Coil Electrical Connector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

All vehicles
Using pry bars and wood blocks, remove the differential assembly from the axle housing.
NOTE: Place a wood block between the pry bar and the axle housing to protect the machined surface from damage.

NOTE: Be careful not to allow the differential assembly to fall.

NOTE: Index-mark the position of the differential bearing shims. The differential bearing shims must be installed in their original locations and positions.

Fig 5: Removing Differential Assembly From Axle Housing Using Pry Bars
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.