Pinion Flange: Service and Repair
COMPANION FLANGE REMOVAL / INSTALLATIONRemoval Note
Caution:
- This operation disturbs the differential pinion bearing preload. Carefully reset the preload during assembly.
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
2. Index-mark the front driveshaft and pinion flange.
Caution:
- Do not allow the driveshaft to hang unsupported.
3. Disconnect the front driveshaft from the pinion flange, and position it aside.
(1) Remove the bolts and the universal joint spider retainers.
(2) Disconnect the front driveshaft from the pinion flange.
(3) Position the front driveshaft aside.
4. Measure the pinion bearing preload.
(1) Using a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench, measure the torque required to maintain pinion rotation. Record the measurement.
5. Index-mark the pinion flange and the pinion stem.
6. Use the pinion flange holding tool SST to hold the pinion flange while removing the nut.
Caution:
- Place a drain pan under the differential housing.
7. Using the 2 jaw puller SST, remove the pinion flange.
8. Inspect the pinion flange for burrs and damage. Inspect the end of the pinion flange that contacts the bearing cone, the nut counterbore, and the seal surface for nicks. Discard the pinion flange as necessary.
Installation Note
1. Verify that the splines on the pinion stem are free of burrs. If burrs are evident, remove them with a fine crocus cloth. Work in a rotating motion to wipe the pinion clean.
2. Lubricate the pinion flange splines.
Caution:
- Never use a metal hammer on the pinion flange or install the flange with power tools. If necessary, use a plastic hammer to tap on a tight fitting flange.
3. Align the index marks and install the pinion flange.
4. Install the new nut hand-tight.
Caution:
- Do not loosen the nut to reduce preload. Install a new collapsible spacer and nut if preload reduction is necessary.
5. Use the pinion flange holding tool SST to hold the pinion flange while tightening the nut to set the preload.
(1) Tighten the nut, rotating the pinion occasionally to ensure the differential pinion bearings are seating correctly. Take frequent differential pinion bearing preload readings by rotating the pinion with a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench. The final reading must be 0.56 Nm (5 lb-in) more than the initial reading taken during step 4 removal.
6. Align the index marks and position the front drive-shaft.
7. Install the universal joint spider retainers and bolts.
8. Check the fluid level and, if necessary, fill the axle to specification with lubricant.
9. Lower the vehicle.
10. If so equipped, reactivate the air suspension.