Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 484

Fig. 113: Rotating Gauge Block 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

7. Rotate the Gauge Block several half-turns to make sure the pinion bearings seat correctly, and position 

the Gauge Block.  

8. Install the special tool. 

1. Position the special tool.  

2. Install the differential bearing caps.  

3. Install the bolts.  

NOTE:

Offset the Gauge Block to obtain an accurate reading.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 114: Installing Bolts 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

NOTE:

Use only flat, clean drive pinion bearing adjustment shims.

NOTE:

Selection of a shim that is too thick results in a deep tooth contact at final 
assembly of integral axle assemblies. Do not attempt to force the shim 
between the Gauge Block and the Gauge Tube. A slight drag indicates 
correct shim selection.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 115: Checking Adjustment Shim Thickness Between Gauge Block & Gauge Tube 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

9. Use a drive pinion bearing adjustment shim as a gauge for shim selection. 

z

Check the adjustment shim thickness between the Gauge Block and the Gauge Tube.  

z

After determining the correct shim thickness, remove the special tools.  

NOTE:

You must use the same pinion bearings from the previous steps.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 116: Installing Pinion Bearing 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

10. Install the pinion bearing. 

z

Place the drive pinion bearing adjustment shim on the pinion gear.  

z

Using a suitable press and the special tool, press the pinion bearing until it is firmly seated on the 
pinion gear.  

11. Place a new drive pinion collapsible spacer on the pinion stem. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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