Rear Driveshaft: Removal

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

NOTE: Some removal steps may contain installation instructions.

All vehicles

Remove the muffler and tailpipe. For 2.0L, refer to: Muffler and Tailpipe . For 2.7L, refer to: Muffler and Tailpipe . For 3.5L, refer to: Muffler and Tailpipe .
If equipped, remove the retainers and the under body shield.

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If equipped, remove the retainers and the dual under body shields.

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If equipped, remove the retainers and the center under body shield.

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If equipped, remove the underbody side shield retainers.

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Vehicles equipped with a 4 bolt PTU flange
NOTE: Do not remove driveshaft from the PTU flange by pulling on the driveshaft tube. Damage to the CV-joint can result.
1. Mark the driveshaft and PTU flange alignment.
2. Remove the driveshaft to PTU bolts, and separate the driveshaft from the PTU.
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Vehicles equipped with a 6 bolt PTU coupling flange
Remove and discard the driveshaft to PTU bolt and washer assemblies.
Torque: 26 lb.ft (35 Nm)

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NOTE: Do not remove driveshaft from the PTU flange by pulling on the driveshaft tube. Damage to the CV-joint can result.
1. Mark the driveshaft and PTU flange alignment.
2. Using a punch and a copper hammer, separate the driveshaft from the PTU flange. Use the General Equipment: Punch. Use the General Equipment: Copper Hammer
3. Remove the driveshaft from the PTU flange.
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All vehicles
Remove and discard the driveshaft to RDU bolt and washer assemblies.
Torque: 26 lb.ft (35 Nm)

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NOTE: Do not remove driveshaft from the pinion flange by pulling on the driveshaft tube. Damage to the CV-joint can result.
1. Mark the driveshaft and RDU flange alignment.
2. Using a flat blade screwdriver, separate the driveshaft from the RDU flange. Use the General Equipment: Flat-Bladed Screwdriver
3. Remove the driveshaft from the RDU flange.
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Remove the retainers and the center bearing heat shield.
Torque: 71 lb.in (8 Nm)

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With the help from an assistant, remove and discard the center bearing bolts and remove the driveshaft.
Torque: 41 lb.ft (55 Nm)

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