Differential Ring And Pinion: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Ford Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the drive pinion flange seal. For additional information, refer to DRIVE PINION FLANGE AND DRIVE PINION SEAL .
Remove the differential carrier assembly. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER .
Remove and discard the 10 differential ring gear bolts.

Fig 1: Locating Differential Ring Gear Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Care should be taken not to damage the differential ring gear bolt hole threads.

Fig 2: Inserting Punch In Differential Ring Gear Bolt Holes

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Insert a punch in the differential ring gear bolt holes and drive the differential ring gear off.
Using the 2 Jaw Puller and Step Plate, remove the differential bearings.

Fig 3: Removing Differential Bearing
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the drive pinion shaft oil slinger and the outer drive pinion bearing.
Install the Drive Pinion Thread Protector. Using a soft-faced hammer, drive the pinion assembly out of the axle housing.

Fig 4: Installing Drive Pinion Thread Protector
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the drive pinion collapsible spacer.

Fig 5: Locating Drive Pinion Collapsible Spacer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a brass drift, remove the drive pinion bearing cups by tapping alternately on opposite sides of the drive pinion bearing cups.

Fig 6: Locating Pinion Bearing Cups
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.