Question Can't remove rear axelshaft

[BigRedWeather]

I am trying to remove the rear axelshaft so I can replace the oil seal on the driver's side. I am following the instructions from in my 97 - 2003 Haynes Ford Pickups and Expedition manual but my differential must be different because the instructions don't get me there. Here is what I have done: (I jave the 3.55 differential)

-Inside the differential I removed the pinion shaft and the two gears that turn on it
-this enables me to ALMOST remove the the gear that is on the end of the driver side axelshaft. I don't need to remove that gear, I need to remove the axelshaft.
-My manual says to "remove the C-lock from the inner end of the shaft" I can't move the end of the axelshaft into the differential at all, so I can't see a C-lock, or cir-clip or anything that is keeping the driveshaft in place.

Can someone tell me how to release the axel so I can remove it?

 

[atk]

i assume you have a full floater rear diff....there is no C-lock clip(not on these rear diffs). remove the 8 bolts at the other end to remove the axle shaft. once the 8 bolts are removed, give a hard rap with a hammer and that will break free the axle from the hub, then just slide out the axle....hope this helps

 

[DaveBen]

It should come right out without too much beating. I have removed mine several times over 5 trucks and no tricks. No clips on the inside, either. Remove the 8 bolts, on the outside of the hub, and out it comes.

Dave

 

[BigRedWeather]

Got my axel out, now I need to replace the seal...

Thanks! My axle is out. Greatly appreciate your help.

My son found that my manual does not match my truck. Little bit of a story behind that... No wonder my manual was missing steps!

I can see the outer seal on the end of the axle.

Looking at the pictures is this what I need to do to replace the inner seal?

-remove the nut with the special tool
-does that allow me to pull the whole end off and access the inner seal?
-replace the seal
-reassemble
-done?
-Any other special tools, special torque?

Thanks again. Maybe I'll have this on the road on Monday.


BigRedWeather

 

[DaveBen]

That special socket is what you need to remove/replace the nuts that hold on the rotating hub. Take that off and you will see a seal on the end of the rotating hub. Replace the seal and install the hub and torque to the proper torque settings. Send me your email address and I can send you the Ford Manual section on these hubs.

Dave

 

[Tbar]

You have to have that special tool......also, that nut may be reverse rotation......can't remember. On my 99.5 the seal came apart in two pieces. Half I had to take off the axle and the other half I had to drive out of the hub.


Tbar

Special nut

Nut removed......outer bearing visible.

Pull the hub

Inner part of the seal

Removing outer part of the seal from the hub