Differential Bearings: Removal

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

Remove the differential carrier assembly. For additional information, refer to Differential Carrier .
Using the Differential Carrier Bearing Collets, Differential Carrier Bearing Step Plate, Differential Carrier Bearing Retaining Ring, Bearing Tube Remover/Installer and Bearing Tube Removal Screw, remove the differential bearings.
- Place the left and right differential bearing shims with the respective outboard spacers.
Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearings
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To maintain driveline balance, index-mark the driveshaft flange and the pinion flange.

Fig 2: Locating Index-Mark On Driveshaft Flange And Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 4 driveshaft flange bolts.

Fig 3: Locating Driveshaft Flange Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: The driveshaft flange fits tightly on the pinion flange. Using a suitable tool, pry only in the area shown in illustration to disconnect the driveshaft flange or damage to the driveshaft may occur.

NOTE: It may be necessary to tap the driveshaft flange with a plastic or rubber soft-faced hammer if a pry area is not on the driveshaft flange.

NOTE: Do not allow the driveshaft to hang unsupported.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Driveshaft Flange From Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool as shown in illustration, disconnect the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft using mechanic's wire.

NOTE: Index-mark the pinion flange to the pinion shaft prior to removal.

Fig 5: Holding Pinion Flange With Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Use the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture to prevent the flange from turning, remove and discard the pinion shaft locknut and washer.
Using the 2 Jaw Puller, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Flange Using Jaw Puller
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: There are drive pinion bearing preload shims on the splined-end of the pinion shaft. These drive pinion bearing preload shims can stick to the pinion shaft, the pinion bearing or they can fall out of the axle housing. Collect and keep the drive pinion bearing preload shims for reassembly.

Fig 7: Driving Pinion From Outer Pinion Bearing

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the Drive Pinion Thread Protector, drive the pinion from the outer pinion bearing and remove it through the rear of the axle housing.
Using the Bearing Puller and a suitable press, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 8: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Using Bearing Puller And Suitable Press
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Slide Hammer and Bushing Remover, remove and discard the drive pinion seal.

Fig 9: Removing Pinion Seal Using Slide Hammer And Bushing Remover
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the drive pinion oil slinger, the outer drive pinion bearing and the pinion preload adjustment shims.

NOTE: Do not nick the axle housing bore or damage to the component may occur.

Fig 10: Removing Outer Pinion Bearing Cup

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the Rear Wheel Hub Bearing Cup Remover and Handle, remove the outer pinion bearing cup.
Using the Drive Pinion Inner Bearing Remover and Handle, remove the inner pinion bearing cup.

Fig 11: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Cup

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.