Ford F150 Pickup. Instruction - part 654

Fig. 5: Exploded View Of Front Driveshaft 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

Driveshafts differ in length, diameter, and type of slip-yoke to accommodate various wheelbase and powertrain 
combinations. 

The two-piece driveshaft has a rear driveshaft and a front coupling shaft. The two-piece driveshaft incorporates 
three single cardan universal joints and is supported with a driveshaft center bearing support which is mounted 

CAUTION: All driveshafts are balanced. If undercoating the vehicle, protect the 

driveshaft and universal joints to prevent oversupply of any undercoating 
material.

NOTE:

Refer to DRIVELINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION for driveshaft runout 
and balance, and indexing procedures.

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Driveshaft & Universal Joints - F150 Pickup

  

to the frame. 

The front driveshaft is connected to the transfer case and the front drive axle by flanges. 

Inspect the driveshaft slip yoke rubber boot for rips and holes. Install new components as necessary. 

Fig. 6: Identifying Driveshaft Slip Yoke Rubber Boot 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

UNIVERSAL JOINTS 

The universal joints are:  

z

lubed-for-life design and require no lubrication.  

z

equipped with nylon thrust washers, located at each base of the bearing cup, which control end play, 
position the needle bearing and improve grease movement. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Driveshaft & Universal Joints - F150 Pickup

  

Fig. 7: Identifying Universal Joints Components 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING 

DRIVESHAFT 

Refer to DRIVELINE SYSTEM - GENERAL INFORMATION . 

REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Driveshaft & Universal Joints - F150 Pickup

  

DRIVESHAFT - FRONT 

Removal & Installation 

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, refer to 

JACKING & HOISTING .  

2. Remove the front driveshaft shield. 

Fig. 8: Removing Front Driveshaft Shield 
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO. 

3. Index-mark the front flange and pinion flange. 

z

Repeat for the rear flange and transfer case flange. 

 

2003 Ford Pickup F150 

2003 DRIVELINE/AXLES Driveshaft & Universal Joints - F150 Pickup