Axle Assembly: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: Do not apply heat or flame to the shock absorber or strut tube. The shock absorber and strut tube are gas pressurized and could explode if heated. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

WARNING: Keep all body parts clear of shock absorbers or strut rods. Shock absorbers or struts can extend unassisted. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious personal injury.

NOTE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts that affect the performance of vital components and systems. Failure of these fasteners may result in major service expense. Use the same or equivalent parts if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Tighten fasteners as specified.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

Remove the rear brake discs. Refer to: Brake Disc .
On both sides Remove the wheel speed sensor bolt and position aside the wheel speed sensor.
Torque: 133 lb.in (15 Nm)

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1. Index-mark the driveshaft flange to the pinion flange to maintain alignment during installation.
2. Remove and discard the driveshaft flange 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.
  
  Separate the driveshaft flange from the pinion flange and support the driveshaft.
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Disconnect the axle assembly vent hose.

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1. Remove the axle assembly vent.
  Torque: 159 lb.in (18 Nm)
2. Remove the brake tube and ABS harness mounting bracket bolt.
  Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)
3. Remove the ABS harness push pin.
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1. Separate the ABS harness clips from the differential housing cover stud bolts.
2. Remove the brake line mounting bolt from the top of the axle assembly.
  Torque: 18 lb.ft (25 Nm)
3. Remove the brake line and ABS harness mount bolt from the RH rear spring seat.
  Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)
4. Remove the brake line and ABS harness push pins from the RH axle tube.
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If equipped. Disconnect the ELD connector.

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On both sides Support the axle assembly with a transmission jack, remove and discard the rear shock absorber lower nuts and bolts. Use the General Equipment: Transmission Jack
Torque: 66 lb.ft (90 Nm)

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1. NOTE: The rear axle must be supported before removing the rear spring U-bolts.
  
  NOTE: The rear spring U-bolts need to be tightened in a cross pattern with the vehicle resting on the wheels and tires (curb height).
  
  With the axle assembly supported with a transmission jack, remove and discard the rear spring U-bolts and U-bolt nuts and remove the U-bolt mounting plates. Use the General Equipment: Transmission Jack
  
  Torque:Stage 1: 30 lb.ft (40 Nm); Stage 2: 59 lb.ft (80 Nm); Stage 3: 89 lb.ft (120 Nm); Stage 4: 111 lb.ft (150 Nm)
2. Lower the transmission jack and remove the axle assembly. Use the General Equipment: Transmission Jack

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