Drive Pinion Flange and Seal: Removal
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
The color on the rear face of the drive pinion nut is critical to this repair. Use the same color new drive pinion nut for installation as the original. If a new collapsible spacer must be installed for pinion bearing preload reduction, install the nut supplied with the new spacer or damage to the component may occur.
NOTE:
This operation disturbs the pinion bearing preload. Carefully reset the pinion bearing preload during assembly.
- With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
- Remove the front brake pads. Refer to FRONT DISC BRAKE SYSTEM .
- Remove the front driveshaft. Refer to DRIVESHAFT .
- Measure and record the pinion bearing preload.
- Using a Nm (lb-in) torque wrench, rotate the pinion gear. Measure the torque required to maintain pinion gear rotation.
- Index-mark the pinion flange and the drive pinion gear.
-
NOTE: 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 nut in the kit or damage to the component may occur.
Using the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture to hold the pinion flange, remove and discard the pinion nut and washer.
- Using the 2 Jaw Puller, remove the pinion flange.
- Inspect the pinion flange for burrs and damage. Inspect the end of the pinion flange that contacts the pinion bearing cone, pinion nut counterbore and drive pinion seal surface for nicks. Discard the pinion flange if damaged.
-
NOTE: Do not damage the axle housing.
Force up on the metal flange of the drive pinion seal. Install gripping pliers and strike with a hammer to remove the drive pinion seal.
- Verify the splines on the drive pinion gear are free of burrs. If burrs are evident, remove them with a fine crocus cloth.
- Clean the drive pinion seal bore.