Lincoln Navigator: Rear Drive Halfshafts / Rear Halfshaft. Removal and Installation

Removal

NOTICE: Never pick up or hold the halfshaft by only the inner or outer CV joint. Damage to the CV joint will occur.

NOTICE: Never use a hammer to remove or install the halfshafts. Damage to the CV joint may occur.

NOTICE: Never use the halfshaft assembly as a lever to position other components. Damage to the halfshaft or CV joint may occur.

NOTICE: Do not allow the boots to contact sharp edges or hot exhaust components. Damage to the halfshaft boots will occur.

NOTICE: Do not drop assembled halfshafts. The impact may cut the boots from the inside without evidence of external damage.

1. Remove the wheel knuckle.
   Refer to: Wheel Knuckle (204-02 Rear Suspension, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Using a pry bar, remove the halfshaft.
   

1. Inspect the inner halfshaft seal surface and splines for damage. Remove and discard the inner halfshaft circlip.
   

1. 
   Inspect the inner CV housing.
   
   1. Normal or acceptable wear.
      
   2. Abnormal or excessive wear.
      

Installation

1. NOTE: The halfshaft seal has to be replaced whenever the halfshaft is removed.

   Replace the halfshaft seal.
   Refer to: Rear Halfshaft Seal (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Vehicles With: Ford 9.75 Inch Ring Gear, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Install a new inner halfshaft circlip.
   

1. NOTICE: After insertion, pull the halfshaft inner end to make sure the circlip is locked.

   NOTE: When seated correctly, the halfshaft retainer circlip can be felt as it snaps into the differential side gear groove.

   Install the halfshaft until the halfshaft circlip is fully seated.
   

1. Install the wheel knuckle.
   Refer to: Wheel Knuckle (204-02 Rear Suspension, Removal and Installation).
   

1. Check and top off the rear differential fluid.
   Refer to: Differential Fluid Level Check (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential - Vehicles With: Ford 9.75 Inch Ring Gear, General Procedures).