Drive Pinion Flange and Drive Pinion Seal: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford Mustang. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: This operation disturbs the pinion bearing preload. Install a new pinion nut with the same color as the original if not replacing the collapsible spacer. If a new collapsible spacer is installed, install the pinion nut in the kit or damage to the component may occur.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Remove the driveshaft. Refer to DRIVESHAFT .
NOTE: The disc brake calipers must be removed to prevent brake drag during drive pinion bearing preload adjustment.

Remove the rear brake disc. Refer to REAR DISC BRAKE .
Using a Nm (lb-in) torque wrench on the pinion nut, record the torque required to maintain rotation of the pinion gear through several revolutions.

Fig 1: Rotating Pinion Gear Using Torque Wrench
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture to hold the pinion flange, remove and discard the pinion nut.

Fig 2: Removing Pinion Nut Using Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Index-mark the pinion flange in relation to the drive pinion stem to make sure of correct alignment during installation.

Fig 3: Identifying Index Mark On Drive Pinion Stem
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the 2 Jaw Puller, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 4: Removing Pinion Flange Using 2 Jaw Puller
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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.

Fig 5: Installing Gripping Pliers
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.