Differential Ring And Pinion: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Ford Ranger. 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 .

Fig 1: Removing Differential Ring Gear Bolts

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove and discard the 10 differential ring gear bolts.

Fig 2: Removing Differential Ring Gear

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NOTE: Do not damage the differential ring gear bolt hole threads.

Insert a punch in the differential ring gear bolt holes and drive the differential ring gear off.

NOTE: The speed sensor ring cannot be reused once removed. Remove the speed sensor ring only if damaged.

If necessary, remove the speed sensor ring.

Fig 3: Removing Differential Bearings Using Special Tool

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the special tools, remove the differential bearings.

Fig 4: Identifying Index-Mark On Driveshaft Centering Socket Yoke And Rear Axle Pinion Flange

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Index-mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange for correct alignment during installation.

Fig 5: Locating Driveshaft Flange Bolts

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Remove the 4 driveshaft flange bolts.

Fig 6: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange Yoke From Pinion Flange

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CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the pinion flange or damage to the component may occur. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the pinion flange or damage to the component may occur.

Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the pinion flange.
- Using mechanic's wire, position the driveshaft aside.

Fig 7: Holding Pinion Flange Using Special Tool

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Using the special tool to hold the pinion flange, remove and discard the pinion nut.

Fig 8: Removing Pinion Flange Using Special Tool

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Using the special tool, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 9: Removing Drive Pinion Oil Seal

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Force up on the metal flange of the drive pinion seal. Install gripping pliers and strike with a hammer until the drive pinion seal is removed.
Remove the drive pinion shaft oil slinger and the outer drive pinion bearing.

Fig 10: Driving Pinion Assembly Out Of Axle Housing Using Special Tool

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Install the special tool. Using a soft-faced hammer, drive the pinion assembly out of the axle housing.

Fig 11: Identifying Drive Pinion Collapsible Spacer

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Remove and discard the drive pinion collapsible spacer.

Fig 12: Identifying Pinion Bearing Cups

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Using a brass drift, remove the drive pinion bearing cups by tapping alternately on opposite sides of the drive pinion bearing cups.