Drive Pinion Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Infiniti M45 and 2008 Infiniti M35. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove differential assembly. Refer to "DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY ".
Remove drive pinion lock nut with a flange wrench.

Fig 1: Removing Drive Pinion Lock Nut
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Put matching mark (B) on the end of drive pinion. The matching mark should be in line with the matching mark (A) on companion flange (1).
CAUTION: For matching mark, use paint. Do not damage companion flange and drive pinion.

NOTE: The matching mark (A) on the final drive companion flange (1) indicates the maximum vertical runout position.
When replacing companion flange, matching mark is not necessary.

Fig 2: Identifying Matching Mark On Drive Pinion
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Remove companion flange using the suitable puller.

Fig 3: Identifying Companion Flange
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Press drive pinion assembly out of gear carrier.
CAUTION: Do not drop drive pinion assembly.
Remove front oil seal.
Remove pinion front bearing inner race.
Remove drive pinion bearing adjusting washer and drive pinion adjusting washer.

Fig 4: Pressing Drive Pinion Assembly
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Remove pinion rear bearing inner race and pinion height adjusting washer with replacer.
Tool number A: ST30031000 (J-22912-01)

Fig 5: Removing Pinion Rear Bearing
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Tap pinion front/rear bearing outer races uniformly a brass rod or equivalent to removed.
CAUTION: Be careful not to damage gear carrier.

Fig 6: Tapping Pinion Front/Rear Bearing Outer Races
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.