Drive Pinion Flange: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2018 Lincoln Navigator. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: This operation disturbs the pinion bearing preload. Carefully reset the pinion bearing preload during installation or damage to the component may occur.

NOTE: Remove the rear wheel and tire assemblies, brake calipers and brake discs to prevent brake drag during the drive pinion bearing preload adjustment.

Remove the rear brake disc. Refer to: Brake Disc .
Remove the rear stabilizer bar. Refer to: Rear Stabilizer Bar .
1. Index mark the driveshaft and the pinion flange for reference during installation.
2. Remove and discard the driveshaft to pinion flange bolts.
  Torque
  
  : 76 lb.ft (103 Nm)
3. NOTE: The driveshaft flange fits tightly on the flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its components to disconnect the driveshaft flange from the flange pilot. Pry only in the area shown with a suitable tool, to disconnect the driveshaft flange from the flange pilot or damage to the driveshaft flange can occur.
  
  Separate the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft. Use the General Equipment: Punch.
4. Support the driveshaft. Use the General Equipment: Cable Ties.
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NOTE: Rotational torque of the drive pinion flange must be measured and recorded using a Nm (lb-in) torque wrench for correct pinion bearing preload when reassembled. This will be the torque-to-turn measurement.

Using a dial type torque wrench, measure and record the rotational torque of the drive pinion.

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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 special tool to hold the pinion flange, remove and discard the pinion nut. Use Special Service Tool: 205-126 (T78P-4851-A) Holding Fixture, Drive Pinion Flange.

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Index mark the drive pinion flange and the drive pinion stem for reassembly.

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Using the general equipment, remove the pinion flange. Use the General Equipment: Three Leg Puller.

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Clean and inspect the pinion flange mating surfaces and pinion seal surface.

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