Front axle assembly (4WD models) — removal and installation Ford F150
1. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands placed under the frame. Block the rear wheels to keep the vehicle from rolling off the stands. Remove the front wheels.
2. Remove the lower shield, if equipped.
3. Remove the front driveshaft (see Driveshaft(s) – removal and installation).
4. Remove the underbody shields, if equipped.
5. With the steering wheel in the straight ahead position, remove the steering shaft U-joint bolt and separate the shaft from the steering gear box (see Suspension and steering systems).
Caution: Make sure that the steering shaft is not rotated with the steering gear removed or damage to the airbag clockspring assembly could occur. One method of preventing the steering shaft from rotating is to run the seat belt through the steering wheel and clip the seat belt buckles together.
6. Remove the driveaxles (see Front driveaxles (4WD models) – removal and installation).
7. Remove the front crossmember.
8. Remove the axle tube bushing bolt and flange nut.
9. Use a transmission jack to support the axle, then remove the rear housing bushing bolts.
10. Remove the front housing bushing bolts.
11. Disconnect the front axle breather hose and move it aside out of the way.
12. Carefully lower the axle with the transmission jack.
13. Installation is the reverse of removal. Be sure to tighten all fasteners to the torque specifications listed in this Chapter’s Specifications. Check the lubricant level after installation (see Tune-up and routine maintenance).