Front Driveshaft: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2022 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Always disconnect the front driveshaft from the transfer case first. Otherwise, the weight of the driveshaft can pinch the boot between the driveshaft and the constant velocity (CV) joint flange which can cause the boot to tear.

NOTE: Note the position of the component before removal.

NOTE: A small amount of oil may weep from the driveshaft joints during storage. The loss of this oil will not affect the operation or durability of the joint.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

WARNING: Before lifting the vehicle with a jack, make sure the jack capacity is adequate for the vehicle weight, including any vehicle cargo or modifications. Identify the correct jacking points in Jacking and Lifting . Position the vehicle on a hard, level surface. After jacking, always support vehicle with jack stands. Never get under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Set the parking brake and block all wheels remaining on the ground. Failure to follow these instructions may result in unintended vehicle movement and serious personal injury or death.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to: Jacking and Lifting .
NOTE: Install all the nuts and bolts finger tight before final tightening.
1. Remove and discard the stabilizer bar bracket nuts.
  Torque: 66 lb.ft (90 Nm)
2. Remove and discard the stabilizer bar bracket bolts.
  Torque: 66 lb.ft (90 Nm)
3. Allow the stabilizer bar to swing downward.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: To avoid damage to the joint or gaiter, do not allow the driveshaft to hang.

NOTE: Tighten driveshaft flange to pinion flange bolts diagonally.

NOTE: Make sure that new bolts are installed.

NOTE: Install all the bolts finger tight before final tightening.

NOTE: Lock the driveshaft before removing the bolts to avoid slipping.
1. Index-mark the front driveshaft CV joint-to-transfer case flange cup.
2. Remove and discard the CV joint-to-transfer case flange cup bolts and retaining straps.
  Torque: Stage 1: 21 lb.ft (28 Nm) Stage 2: 120deg.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: To avoid damage to the joint or gaiter, do not allow the driveshaft to hang.

NOTE: Tighten driveshaft flange to pinion flange bolts diagonally.

NOTE: Make sure that new bolts are installed.

NOTE: Install all the bolts finger tight before final tightening.

NOTE: Lock the driveshaft before removing the bolts to avoid slipping.
1. Index-mark the front driveshaft flange CV joint-to-the pinion flange cup.
2. Remove and discard the CV joint-to-the pinion flange bolts and retaining straps.
  Torque: Stage 1: 21 lb.ft (28 Nm) Stage 2: 120deg.
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
NOTE: Make sure that the component freely rotate.

NOTE: Make sure that the mating faces are clean and free of foreign material.

Remove the front driveshaft.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY