Inboard Tripot

SERVICE

1992 Tempo and Topaz models equipped with 2.3L engines are fitted with tripot joints retained by an outboard snap-ring. Tripot joints on Tempo/Topaz with 3.0L engines are fixed by an outboard circlip together with a stop ring.

1. Clamp halfshaft in a vise, then slightly bend back the tripot retaining tabs to allow for tripot removal.
2. Separate outer race from tripot.
3. Using snap ring pliers, remove the tripot snap ring on Tempo/Topaz with 2.3L engine. On Tempo/Topaz with 3.0L engine and 1990 Escort, move the snap ring back on the shaft.
4. Remove the tripot from the shaft. On Tempo/Topaz with 3.0L engine, move the tripot back on the shaft to gain access to the circlip, then remove the circlip, tripot and stop ring.
5. Remove joint dust boot.
6. Assemble the inboard joint by first sliding the joint dust boot onto the shaft.
7. On Tempo/Topaz with 3.0L engine, install the stop ring.
8. On all models, install tripot assembly with chamfered side inboard.
9. Using snap-ring pliers, install tripot snap ring. On Tempo/Topaz with 3.0L engine, install a new circlip. Fit the circlip by starting one end in the circlip groove and working the other over the stub shaft end and into the groove. Do not overexpand or twist the circlip during installation.
10. On Tempo/Topaz with 3.0L engine, compress circlip so that tripot assembly may be slid over it to expose stop ring groove, then using snap-ring pliers fully seat the stop ring into its groove.
11. Fill the tripot outer race with High-Temp Constant Velocity Joint Grease part no. E43Z-19590-A or equivalent.
12. Install the race over the tripot assembly and bend the tripot retaining tabs back into their original positions.

Halfshaft Assembled Lengths:

13. Remove all excess grease from the joint's external surfaces, then move dust boot into place. Adjust assembled length by manipulating joint axially.
14. When halfshaft assembled length is as specified, use a dull screwdriver to pry up the dust boot so that any trapped air in the joint assembly's cavity may escape. When the joint has been emptied of air, seat the boot in the race groove and clamp in position with crimping pliers.
15. Install a new circlip in the groove nearest the end of the shaft. Do not twist or overexpand the circlip during installation. Work the joint through its full range of travel. The joint should flex, extend and compress smoothly.