Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 558

Fig. 27: Removing Driveshaft Bolts 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

CAUTION: The driveshaft centering socket yoke fits tightly on the rear axle 

pinion flange pilot. Never hammer on the driveshaft or any of its 
components to disconnect the yoke from the flange. Pry only in the 
area shown with a suitable tool to disconnect the yoke from the 
flange.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 28: Disconnecting Driveshaft Centering Socket Yoke From Rear Axle Pinion Flange 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

8. Using a suitable tool as shown, disconnect the driveshaft centering socket yoke from the rear axle pinion 

flange. 

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Position the driveshaft out of the way.  

9. Install an inch-pound torque wrench on the pinion nut and record the torque required to maintain rotation 

of the pinion through several revolutions. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 29: Checking Rotational Torque 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

CAUTION: After removal of the pinion nut, discard it. A new nut must be used 

for installation.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 30: Holding Pinion Flange To Remove Pinion Nut 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

10. Using the special tool, hold the pinion flange and remove the pinion nut.  

11. Mark the pinion flange in relation to the drive pinion stem to make sure of correct alignment during 

installation. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear - F150 Pickup