Differential Gear Assembly: Disassembly

All vehicles

NOTE: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) shown in illustration, Front Wheel Drive (FWD) similar.

Fig 1: Locating Differential Bearings

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Inspect the differential bearings for damage or excessive wear. Install new bearings if necessary.
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles
Using Step Plate 205-D019, Bearing Puller 205-D064 and Front Wheel Hub Remover/Installer 204-069, remove the right differential carrier bearing from the differential assembly.

Fig 2: Removing Right Differential Carrier Bearing From Differential Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Front Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicles
Using Step Plate 205-D015, Bearing Puller 205-D064 and Front Wheel Hub Remover/Installer 204-069, remove the right differential carrier bearing from the differential assembly.

Fig 3: Removing Right Differential Carrier Bearing From Differential Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

All vehicles

NOTE: AWD shown in illustration, FWD similar.

Fig 4: Removing Left Differential Carrier Bearing From Differential Assembly

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using Step Plate 205-D015, Bearing Puller 205-D064 and Front Wheel Hub Remover/Installer 204-069, remove the left differential carrier bearing from the differential assembly.

NOTE: If replacing the ring gear, it is also necessary to replace the transfer shaft.

Inspect the differential assembly and the ring gear for damage and install new, if necessary.
Remove and discard the 16 differential ring gear bolts.

Fig 5: Locating Differential Ring Gear Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a suitable tool, remove the differential ring gear.

Fig 6: Locating Differential Ring Gear
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.