Ford F150 Pickup. Manual — part 571

Fig. 81: Material Specification
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Removal

1. Remove the axle shafts. For additional information, refer to AXLE SHAFT .

2. Wipe the lubricant from the internal working parts and visually inspect the parts for wear or damage.

3. Rotate the differential case to see if there is any roughness which would indicate damaged bearings or

gears.

2003 Ford Pickup F150

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup

Fig. 82: Rotating Differential Case Checking For Roughness
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE:

There is a space between the anti-lock speed sensor ring and the ring gear
for measuring ring gear backface runout.

2003 Ford Pickup F150

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup

Fig. 83: Inspecting Ring Gear Backface Runout
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

2003 Ford Pickup F150

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup

4. Position the special tool and inspect ring gear backface runout.

Fig. 84: Removing Bearing Caps
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

5. Loosen the differential case.

1. Remove the four bearing cap bolts.

2. Remove the two bearing caps.

CAUTION: Mark the position of the bearing caps, as arrows may not be visible.

The bearing caps must be installed in their identical locations and
positions.

WARNING:

Be careful not to allow the differential case to fall.

CAUTION: Place a wood block between the pry bar and the rear axle housing

(4010) to protect the machined surface from damage.

2003 Ford Pickup F150

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup