Ranger 2WD V6-3.0L VIN V Flex Fuel (2001)
18. NOTE: Disregard the index marks if installing a new pinion flange.
Position the pinion flange.
19. Using the special tool, install the pinion flange.
20. Position the new nut.
21. CAUTION: Do not under any circumstance loosen the nut to reduce preload.
If it is necessary to reduce preload, install a new collapsible spacer and nut.
CAUTION: Remove the special tool while taking preload readings with the Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench.
Use the special tool to hold the pinion flange while tightening the nut.
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Rotate the pinion occasionally to make sure the pinion bearings seat correctly. Take frequent pinion bearing preload readings by rotating the
pinion with a Nm (inch-pound) torque wrench.
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For new pinion bearings, tighten the nut to specification.
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For used pinion bearings, if the preload recorded prior to disassembly is lower than the specification for used bearings, then tighten the nut to
specification.
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For used pinion bearings, if the preload recorded prior to disassembly is higher than the specification for used bearings, then tighten the nut to
the original reading as recorded.
Final assembly
22. Install the differential case in the differential housing.
