Removal And Installation: Driveshaft: Removal

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

NOTE: Index mark both driveshaft flanges.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. REFER to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Remove the muffler and tailpipe. REFER to REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
Remove the 4 exhaust support brace bolts and the exhaust support brace.
NOTE: Do not reuse the bolt and washer assemblies for the rear CV joint flange. Install new assemblies or damage to the vehicle may occur.

Remove and discard the 3 RDU pinion flange bolt and washer assemblies.

Fig 1: Locating Pinion Flange Mounting Bolt (RDU)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a flat blade screwdriver in the area shown in illustration, separate the driveshaft CV flange from the RDU flange.

Fig 2: Locating Driveshaft CV Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 4 PTU flange bolts.

Fig 3: Locating Flange Mounting Bolt (PTU)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a suitable prybar as shown in illustration, separate the driveshaft flange from the PTU flange.

Fig 4: Separating Driveshaft Flange From PTU Flange Using Suitable Prybar
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
With the help of an assistant, remove the 2 outer center bearing bracket bolts and the driveshaft.

Fig 5: Locating Outer Center Bearing Bracket Mounting Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If necessary, remove the 2 inner center bearing bolts and remove the center bearing bracket.