Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 495

Fig. 159: Measuring Ring Gear Backlash 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

NOTE:

If the backlash is not within the specifications, correct it by increasing the 
thickness of one differential bearing shim and decreasing the thickness on 
the other differential bearing shim by the same amount.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 160: Increasing Backlash 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

50. To increase the backlash, install a thicker differential bearing shim and a thinner differential bearing shim 

as shown.  

51. To decrease the backlash, install a thicker differential bearing shim and a thinner differential bearing shim 

as shown. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 161: Decreasing Backlash 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

52. Liberally lubricate the axle shaft shift lever, and install a new O-ring. 

z

Use Ford Silicone Brake Caliper Grease and Dielectric Compound D7AZ-19A331-A (Motorcraft 
WA-10) or equivalent meeting Ford specification ESE-M1C171-A. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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

  

Fig. 162: Installing O-Ring 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

53. Install the axle shaft shift lever. 

1. Position the clutch fork.  

2. Install the axle shaft shift lever. 

z

Align the instruction shaft retaining pin holes. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

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