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. For additional information, refer to Differential Carrier .
Using the Differential Carrier Bearing Step Plate, Differential Carrier Bearing Collets, Differential Carrier Bearing Retaining Ring, Bearing Tube Remover and Bearing Tube Removal Screw, remove the differential bearings.

Fig 1: Removing Differential Bearings
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Differential Carrier Bearing Installer, install the new differential bearings on the differential case.

Fig 2: Installing Differential Bearings On Differential Case
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To maintain driveline balance, index-mark the driveshaft flange yoke and the pinion flange.

Fig 3: Locating Index-Mark On Driveshaft Flange Yoke And Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the 4 bolts.

Fig 4: Identifying Driveshaft Flange and Rear Axle Pinion Flange Bolts And Alignment Marks
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: The driveshaft flange yoke fits tightly on the pinion flange yoke. Pry only in the area shown in illustration, with a suitable tool, to disconnect the yoke from the flange.

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

NOTE: Do not allow the driveshaft to hang unsupported.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Driveshaft Centering Socket Yoke From Pinion Flange

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using a suitable tool as shown in illustration, disconnect the driveshaft flange yoke from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft using mechanic's wire.
Using the Drive Pinion Flange Holding Fixture to prevent the flange from turning, remove and discard the pinion nut.

Fig 6: Removing Pinion Nut
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Index-mark the pinion flange to the pinion shaft prior to removal.

Fig 7: Identifying Mark Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the 2 Jaw Puller, remove the pinion flange.

Fig 8: Removing Pinion Flange
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Force up on the metal flange of the rear axle drive pinion seal. Install gripping pliers to the seal flange and strike with a hammer until the rear axle drive pinion seal is removed.
- Remove the oil slinger and the outer pinion bearing.
Fig 9: Removing Drive Pinion Oil Seal
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the Drive Pinion Thread Protector and, with a soft-faced hammer, drive the pinion out of the front bearing cone and remove it through the rear of the housing.

Fig 10: Identifying Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the Bearing Puller and a suitable press, remove the inner pinion bearing.

Fig 11: Removing Inner Pinion Bearing Using Bearing Puller And Suitable Press
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a brass drift, remove the pinion bearing cups by tapping alternately on opposite sides of the cups.

Fig 12: Locating Pinion Bearing Cups

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.