Rear Pinion output shaft on PTU?

TANNERG14

MEMBER
2012 FORD EXPLORER
3.5L
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

Hello, I am replacing the rear output pinion shaft seal. I currently have a new seal, crush spacer, and pinion nut. From what I've read at this point I need to verify rotational torque before removing the nut. Does the vehicle need to be in neutral in order to check rotational torque? I would assume it does but I don't like assuming. Also, I have read that you can just torque the nut to 142 NM if using new parts. What are all new parts required to be replaced in order to just have to torque the nut to spec? Any advice would be great. Thank you!

3 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,591 POSTS

Answered in your other post but, it needs to be in neutral with the tires off the ground so that only the gearing is being measured. If the bearings, pinion and gears are good you only need a new crush sleeve.
Just be advised that if it was driven a while with it loose it may be noisy.

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Saturday, January 20th, 2024 AT 4:00 PM

TANNERG14

MEMBER
4 POSTS

I park in the garage and have never seen oil on the floor up until a couple days ago, so I'm relatively sure the leak just started. I know how to inspect the bearing, what am I looking for with the pinion and gears? Also, you rock Steve, your help is greatly appreciated!

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Saturday, January 20th, 2024 AT 6:35 PM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,591 POSTS

Okay, if it's just a leaking pinion seal, remove the nut, the yoke and then swap the seal, then install the nut and torque it down. It sounds like the pinion seal is the only issue. I've seen them where the nut has backed off enough that they cause an issue.

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Saturday, January 20th, 2024 AT 6:48 PM