Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 494

Fig. 155: Positioning Differential Bearing Shims 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

46. Position the differential case assembly. 

1. Position the differential bearing cups on the differential bearings.  

2. Lower the differential case assembly in place between the differential bearing shims. 

NOTE:

Push the differential case downward to fully seat the differential bearing 
cups in the axle housing.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 156: Positioning Differential Case Assembly Between Differential Bearing Shims 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

47. Install the bearing caps in their original positions and tighten with the housing still spread. 

1. Position the bearing caps.  

2. Install the bolts.  

3. Remove the special tool. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 157: Installing Bearing Caps In Original Positions & Tighten With Housing Still Spread
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

48. Install the special tool. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 158: Installing Special Tool 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

49. Measure the ring gear backlash at four places to obtain a consistent reading. 

1. Mount the special tools on the indicator base.  

2. Position the indicator needle and zero the indicator.  

3. Turn the ring gear without turning the pinion gear and record the measurement.  

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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