Disassembly And Assembly Of Subassemblies: Differential: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Focus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install the special tools (clutch side shown).

Fig 1: Install Special Tools (Clutch Side)
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the taper roller bearings off the differential (transaxle side shown).
- Remove the sensor ring off vehicle speed sensor (VSS).
  
  Fig 2: Removing Taper Roller Bearings Off Differential (Transaxle Side)
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove differential pinions and the ring gear.
1. Rotate the front driveshaft differential pinions through 90 degrees while they are still inside the differential housing and remove them.
2. Remove the snap-ring and the shaft.
  - Remove the two differential pinions and plastic thrust elements.
3. Remove the eight bolts and the ring gear.
  
  Fig 3: Removing Differential Pinions And Ring Gear
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.