Drive Pinion Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Nissan Xterra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the differential assembly. Refer to "DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY ".
Remove the drive pinion lock nut using suitable tool.
Put matching marks on the companion flange and drive pinion using paint.
CAUTION: Use paint to make the matching marks. Do not damage the companion flange or drive pinion.

Fig 1: Removing Drive Pinion Lock Nut
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Remove the companion flange using suitable tool.

Fig 2: Removing Companion Flange
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Press the drive pinion assembly (with rear inner bearing race and collapsible spacer) out of the gear carrier.
CAUTION: Do not drop drive pinion assembly.

Fig 3: Pressing Drive Pinion Assembly (With Rear Inner Bearing Race And Collapsible Spacer) Out Of Gear Carrier
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Remove the drive pinion rear bearing inner race and drive pinion height adjusting washer using Tool.
Tool number: ST30031000 (J-22912-01)

Fig 4: Removing Drive Pinion Rear Bearing Inner Race And Height Adjusting Washer
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Remove the front oil seal using suitable tool.
CAUTION: Do not damage gear carrier.

Fig 5: Removing Front Oil Seal
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Remove the drive pinion front bearing inner race.
Remove the drive pinion front and rear bearing outer races by tapping them uniformly using suitable tool.
CAUTION: Do not damage gear carrier.

Fig 6: Removing Drive Pinion Front Bearing Inner Race
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.