Ford 8.8-Inch Ring Gear

Removal





1. Note: Make sure the parking brake control is fully released.

Release the tension on the front parking brake cable and conduit.
1 Pull on the front parking brake cable and conduit until the parking brake pedal moves.
2 Insert a suitable retainer, such as a 5/32-inch drill bit, into the parking brake control to hold it in place so that the front parking brake cable and conduit stays slack.
2. Raise and support the vehicle.
3. Remove the wheels and tires.





4. Mark the driveshaft flange and pinion flange for correct alignment during installation.





5. Remove the four driveshaft retainer bolts and disconnect the driveshaft. Wire the driveshaft out of the way.





6. Disconnect the rear brake anti-lock sensor electrical connector and wiring harness clips.





7. Note: Do not disconnect the brake lines from the brake hose junction block.

Disconnect the brake hose junction block from the rear axle housing.





8. CAUTION: Pull the brake lines from the retaining clips.

Disconnect the rear brake drum backing plates and wire them out of the way.





9. Position a suitable jack under the rear axle housing and strap it securely in place.





10. WARNING: Do not remove the lower shock absorber bolts at this time.

Remove the two lower shock absorber nuts and bolts (one per side).





11. Remove the rear axle U-bolt assembly.
1 Remove the four rear spring plate nuts.
2 Remove the two rear spring plate U-bolts.
3 Remove the rear spring plate.
4 Repeat the procedure for the other side.
12. Lower the rear axle from the vehicle.

Installation

















1. Follow the removal procedure in reverse order.