Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 597

Fig. 7: Identifying Differential Side Gear & Rear Axle Disc & Plate Kit 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

IN-VEHICLE REPAIR 

AXLE SHAFT 

Removal 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 9.75-inch - F150 Pickup

  

1. Raise and support the vehicle.  

2. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.  

3. Remove the differential housing cover (4033). 

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Drain the lubricant. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING COVER .  

4. Remove the brake calipers and discs.  

5. Remove the differential pinion shaft (4211). 

1. Remove and discard the differential pinion shaft lock bolt.  

2. Remove the differential pinion shaft.  

Fig. 8: Removing Differential Pinion Shaft 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

WARNING:

The electrical power to the air suspension system must be shut off 
prior to hoisting, jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. This 
can be accomplished by turning off the air suspension switch 
located in the RH kick panel area. Failure to do so can result in 
unexpected inflation or deflation of the air springs, which can result 
in shifting of the vehicle during these operations.

CAUTION: Do not damage the rubber O-rings in the axle shaft grooves.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 9.75-inch - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 9: Removing U-Washers 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

6. Remove the U-washers (4N237). 

1. Push the axle shafts (4234) inboard.  

2. Remove the U-washers.  

CAUTION: Do not damage the wheel bearing oil seal (1177).

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 9.75-inch - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 10: Removing Axle Shaft 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

7. Remove the two axle shaft.  

Installation 

1. Lubricate the lip of the wheel bearing oil seal. 

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

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 9.75-inch - F150 Pickup