Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 497

Fig. 167: Inserting Axle Cluster Gear Shaft 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

58. Coat the thrust washer with grease, and position it on the axle cluster gear shaft. 

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Use Premium Long Life Grease XG-1-C or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESA-M1C75-B. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Front Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 168: Positioning Thrust Washer On Axle Cluster Gear Shaft 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

CAUTION: Remove all of the old liquid gasket, and make sure the machined 

surfaces are free of oil before applying the new silicone rubber.

CAUTION: Install the axle housing tube within 15 minutes of applying the 

silicone, or it will be necessary to remove and reapply new sealant. If 
possible, allow one hour before filling with lubricant to make sure the 
silicone has cured.

CAUTION: Do not allow any silicone rubber to squeeze inside during assembly.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Front Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 169: Applying Silicone 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

59. Fill the groove with Silicone Gasket and Sealant F7AZ-19554-EA or equivalent meeting Ford 

specification WSE-M4G323-A4.  

60. Assemble the axle housing tube. 

z

Align the bolt holes and position the axle housing tube.  

z

Position the axle identification tag.  

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Install the bolts. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Front Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 170: Assembling Axle Housing Tube 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

61. Examine the axle shaft seal and bearing surface for damage. If necessary, polish the bearing surface with 

fine crocus cloth. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Front Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch - F150 Pickup