- Scribe mating marks (or use white paint, yellow grease pencil, etc.) on
the flanged yoke at the rear of the rear U-joint and on the companion flange
at the front of the rear axle. This will permit the shaft to be reinstalled
in the same position for balance purposes.
- Remove the nuts and bolts from the companion flange, and lower the rear
of the driveshaft. Slide the front of the shaft out of the transmission. Cover
the opening left at the rear of the transmission with a clean rag or similar
means so dirt will be kept out. Have a pan or similar container at hand to
catch any transmission fluid which may leak out of the flange.
- In the case of a driveshaft having a center bearing, the rear shaft must
be removed first. Unbolt the bearing or carrier mount from the vehicle and
remove it from the front driveshaft. Remove the front driveshaft.
- When reinstalling, apply SAE 80 hypoid gear oil (API GL-4) to the inner
and outer surface of the sleeve yoke where it will enter the transmission
or center bearing.
- Align the marks on the yoke and companion flange; line up the bolt holes.
- Install the nuts and bolts with the lockwashers on the back (nut) side of
the flange. Tighten the bolts to 36–43 ft. lbs. (49–58 Nm) for
all vehicles except for the 3.5L V6 equipped Monteros, for these vehicles
tighten the bolts and nuts to 72–80 ft. lbs. (98–108 Nm).