Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 651

Fig. 42: Identifying Correct Pinion Position Shim That Requires A Decrease In Backlash 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

Correct pinion position shim that requires an increase in backlash. 

Fig. 43: Identifying Correct Pinion Position Shim That Requires An Increase In Backlash 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

GENERAL PROCEDURES 

DRIVELINE ANGLE INSPECTION 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 GENERAL INFORMATION Driveline System - General Information - F150 Pickup

  

Special Tool(s) 

Fig. 44: Identifying Special Tool(s) 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

1. Check the vehicle for evidence of overload or sagging. Check for specified air pressures in all four tires.  

2. Normalize the suspension.  

3. Drive the vehicle onto a drive-on hoist or back onto a front-end alignment rack.  

4. Inspect the suspension and chassis. Verify that the vehicle curb position ride height is within 

specification. 

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Measure the curb position ride height with the vehicle empty and all fluids full.  

5. Place the inclinometer on a clean, flat level section on the bottom of the frame rail. Press the ALT ZERO 

button to calibrate the inclinometer to the vehicle. 

NOTE:

An incorrect driveline angle can cause a vibration or shudder. Refer to NOISE, 
VIBRATION & HARSHNESS - F150 PICKUP .

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 GENERAL INFORMATION Driveline System - General Information - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 45: Placing Inclinometer On A Clean Flat Level Section On Bottom Of Frame Rail 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

6. For the driveshaft angle reading, place the inclinometer flush against the bottom of the driveshaft. Check 

and record the reading. Compare the results with the correct angles. Refer to SPECIFICATIONS . 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 GENERAL INFORMATION Driveline System - General Information - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 46: Comparing Results With Correct Angles 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

7. To check the pinion angle, rotate the driveshaft so that the rear axle pinion flange yoke ear is parallel to 

the floor. Remove the U-joint snap ring, then install the special tool. Check and record the pinion angle 
reading. 

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If the angle is not within specifications, repair or adjust to obtain the correct angles. Inspect the rear 
suspension, rear axle, rear axle mounting or the frame for wear or damage. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 GENERAL INFORMATION Driveline System - General Information - F150 Pickup