This procedure covers the removal and installation of the rear driveshaft on a 2021-2024 Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and rear-wheel drive configuration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear driveshaft assembly (if replacing) × 1 — Use OEM Ford specification for 3.5L EcoBoost RWD

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake firmly
2. Chock the front wheels to prevent rolling
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
4. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands under frame rails
5. Ensure adequate working clearance beneath vehicle (minimum 24 inches recommended)

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark driveshaft alignment
   Before removing any fasteners, use a paint marker to mark the relationship between the driveshaft yoke and the rear differential pinion flange. Also mark the driveshaft tube to the front flange near the transmission. These alignment marks are critical for maintaining proper driveshaft phasing and preventing vibration issues upon reinstallation.
2. 2

   Support driveshaft
   Position a transmission jack or adjustable jack stand under the center of the driveshaft to support its weight. Adjust the support so it just barely contacts the driveshaft tube without applying upward pressure. This prevents the driveshaft from falling when the fasteners are removed.
3. 3

   Remove rear driveshaft bolts
   Locate the four bolts connecting the rear universal joint or CV joint to the rear differential pinion flange. Use a 15mm socket to remove these bolts while having a helper hold the driveshaft to prevent rotation, or use a pry bar to hold the flange stationary. Keep these bolts organized as they will be reused.
4. 4

   Separate rear connection
   Once the bolts are removed, carefully push the rear of the driveshaft forward to separate the universal joint or CV joint from the differential flange. The driveshaft should move forward slightly on the support jack. If stuck, use a rubber mallet to gently tap the yoke away from the flange. Do not pry between machined surfaces.
5. 5

   Remove front driveshaft bolts
   Move to the front of the driveshaft near the transmission. Remove the four bolts connecting the front CV joint or flange to the transmission output shaft. Use a 13mm or 15mm socket depending on your specific configuration. Again, prevent rotation by holding the driveshaft or using a pry bar against the flange.
6. 6

   Remove driveshaft assembly
   With all bolts removed and the driveshaft supported, carefully lower the support jack while guiding the driveshaft downward. Pull the front of the driveshaft rearward to clear the transmission output flange, then lower the entire assembly and remove it from under the vehicle. The driveshaft weighs approximately 20-25 pounds, so handle with care.
7. 7

   Inspect components
   With the driveshaft removed, inspect the transmission output shaft seal and rear differential pinion seal for any signs of leakage. Check both flanges for wear, scoring, or damage. Inspect the driveshaft universal joints or CV joints for play, roughness, or torn boots. If replacing the driveshaft, ensure the new unit matches the original in length and flange configuration.
8. 8

   Clean mounting surfaces
   Use a wire brush and brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the transmission output flange and rear differential pinion flange. Remove any rust, dirt, or old thread locker from the bolt holes and mating surfaces. Clean surfaces ensure proper seating and accurate torque readings during reassembly.
9. 9

   Position driveshaft for installation
   Lift the driveshaft (new or original) into position under the vehicle using the support jack. Orient the driveshaft so the alignment marks made during disassembly line up correctly. If installing a new driveshaft, refer to factory markings or ensure the same yoke orientation as the original.
10. 10

    Connect front of driveshaft
    Raise the front of the driveshaft and align the front CV joint or flange with the transmission output shaft. Ensure the bolt holes align properly. Install the four front mounting bolts finger-tight initially to hold the connection in place. Verify alignment marks match before proceeding.
11. 11

    Connect rear of driveshaft
    Align the rear universal joint or CV joint with the rear differential pinion flange, ensuring the alignment marks match. Install the four rear mounting bolts finger-tight. Check that the driveshaft sits naturally without binding or misalignment at either end.
12. 12

    Torque all driveshaft bolts
    Using a calibrated torque wrench, tighten all eight driveshaft bolts (four front and four rear) to the specified torque of 85 Nm (63 lb-ft). Tighten bolts in a criss-cross pattern at each end to ensure even clamping force. Verify all bolts are properly seated and torqued before removing the support jack.
13. 13

    Remove support and lower vehicle
    Remove the transmission jack or support stand from under the driveshaft. Verify the driveshaft is securely attached at both ends with no abnormal movement. Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands and remove all supporting equipment.

Reassembly

1. Alignment marks must match exactly at both ends to prevent driveshaft vibration
2. All driveshaft bolts must be torqued to specification in a criss-cross pattern
3. Verify no tools or parts were left under the vehicle before test driving

Verification

• Start the engine and shift through all gear ranges while stationary to verify no unusual noises
• Test drive the vehicle at various speeds (25, 45, and 65 mph) to check for vibration or unusual driveline noises
• Listen for clunking sounds during acceleration and deceleration which may indicate loose bolts
• After the first 50-100 miles, re-check all driveshaft bolt torque values to ensure they remain properly tightened
• Verify no fluid leaks from transmission or differential seals that may have been disturbed during the procedure

More procedures for this vehicle