Removal

CAUTION: This operation disturbs the pinion bearing preload. Preload must be carefully reset when assembling.

NOTE: Replacement of rear axle drive pinion seal involves replacement of only the pinion nut and rear axle universal joint flange.

1. Raise the vehicle and install safety stands. Remove the rear wheels and rear disc brake rotors.





2. Mark the driveshaft centering socket yoke and rear axle universal joint flange to make sure the driveshaft is properly positioned during assembly. Disconnect the driveshaft from the rear axle universal joint flange. Remove the driveshaft from the transmission extension housing. Install Extension Housing Seal Replacer T61 L-7657-A in the transmission extension housing to prevent oil leakage.

NOTE: If rear axle universal joint flange is being replaced, it is not necessary to mark the driveshaft centering socket yoke.





3. Install a Nm (inch lbs.) torque wrench on the pinion nut. Record the torque required to maintain rotation of the pinion through several revolutions.





4. While holding rear axle universal joint flange with Companion Flange Holding Tool T78P-4851-A, remove Pinion nut.
5. Clean area around the rear axle drive pinion seal. Place a drain pan under rear axle drive pinion seal or raise front of vehicle higher than rear.





6. Mark rear axle universal joint flange in relation to pinion shaft so rear axle universal joint flange can be installed in same position.





7. Remove rear axle universal joint flange using Companion Flange Remover T65L-4851-B.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the rear axle universal joint flange or drive pinion bearing adjustment shim , never strike the rear axle universal joint flange with a hammer.





8. Position screwdriver under flange of rear axle drive pinion seal and carefully strike with hammer to wedge screwdriver blade between metal flange of rear axle drive pinion seal and rear axle housing.

CAUTION: Do not damage rear axle housing while removing rear axle drive pinion seal.





9. Pry up on metal flange of rear axle drive pinion seal. Install gripping pliers and strike with hammer until rear axle drive pinion seal is removed.