Ford 7L1Z-4602-A Drive Shaft Assembly

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Driveshafts have a "slip yoke" at the front end that inserts into the extension housing of the transmission or transfer case. On two-piece rear driveshafts, a center bearing supports the driveline. The rear end of all rear driveshafts connects to the rear axle's differential pinion flange using a flange yoke with four bolts. Front driveshafts on 4WD models may have a slip yoke at either the front or rear end, depending on the vehicle type.

To prepare the vehicle, begin by turning off the air suspension system if equipped. Next, securely raise the vehicle on jackstands, place the transmission in Neutral with the parking brake off, and block the front wheels to prevent any rolling.

For all vehicle models, begin by turning off the air suspension system if equipped and securely raising the vehicle on jackstands while placing the transmission in Neutral with the parking brake off, and blocking the front wheels to prevent any rolling. For the rear driveshaft, mark the relationship between the driveshaft and the differential pinion flange, remove the rear universal joint bolts, and if applicable, remove the center bearing support bracket bolts on two-piece driveshafts. Lower the rear driveshaft, slide out the slip yoke from the transmission or transfer case, and remove the driveshaft assembly while protecting the extension housing with a plastic bag. While the driveshaft is removed, inspect and replace the extension housing seal and differential pinion seal if necessary. For two-piece driveshafts, check the center bearing. To install, follow the reverse procedure, ensuring proper alignment of the marks and tightening all bolts securely. For the front driveshaft on 4WD models, remove the front driveshaft shield, mark the relationships of the driveshaft to the front axle differential pinion flange and transfer case output shaft companion flange, remove the attaching bolts, lower and remove the front driveshaft. Inspect and replace the differential pinion seal and transfer case output shaft seal if needed. To install, bolt the front end to the front axle differential pinion flange, attach the rear end to the transfer case output shaft companion flange, and secure the front driveshaft shield. Finally, remove the jackstands and lower the vehicle, reactivating the air suspension system if applicable.

Driveshaft assemblies require minimal service. Universal joints are usually lubricated for life and should be replaced if problems arise. During service, the driveshaft should be removed from the vehicle. It's important to keep the driveshaft clean, inspect it for obvious damage, and ensure that small weights used for balancing are in place and securely attached. When reinstalling the driveshaft, it must be returned to the same relative position to preserve balance.