However, if you're determined to proceed, here's a general outline of the steps. This is not an exhaustive guide, and specific procedures may vary slightly depending on your truck's configuration (e.g., 4x2 vs. 4x4). Consult a repair manual specific to your 1999 F-150 for detailed instructions and diagrams.
Safety First:
* Disconnect the battery: This prevents accidental short circuits.
* Secure the vehicle: Use jack stands under the frame, never rely solely on a jack. Chock the front wheels.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Have the correct tools: This includes various sockets, wrenches, a torque wrench, a hammer, possibly a pickle fork (for ball joints – use caution!), and potentially a slide hammer.
General Steps (consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Raise and support the truck: Securely lift the rear of the truck and support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the wheels: Remove both rear wheels.
3. Disconnect the brake lines: Carefully disconnect the brake lines from the axle. You'll likely need a flare nut wrench and may need to collect the fluid that spills. Be prepared to bleed the brakes afterwards.
4. Disconnect the shocks/struts: Disconnect the shocks or struts from the axle and the truck's frame.
5. Disconnect the driveshaft(s): If it's a 4x4, disconnect both the front and rear driveshafts. On a 2WD, disconnect the driveshaft. You may need to support the driveshaft to prevent it from dropping.
6. Disconnect the brake cables (if applicable): Some models have parking brake cables connected to the axle.
7. Disconnect the ABS sensor (if applicable): Carefully disconnect the ABS sensor wire from the axle.
8. Remove the axle: This is often the most difficult part. You'll likely need to remove nuts and bolts holding the axle housing to the differential and the leaf springs (or suspension components in the case of an independent rear suspension - though this is less common in F-150s of that era). You may need to use a hammer and pry bar (carefully!) to break the axle free. Again, a slide hammer might be useful for stubborn components.
9. Lower the axle: Carefully lower the axle to the ground.
Reinstallation: Reverse the process, remembering to torque all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (found in your repair manual). Bleeding the brakes will be necessary after reconnecting the brake lines.
Important Considerations:
* Differential: The differential is a complex component and should be handled with care. If you are working on the axle itself, you may need to remove the differential as well.
* Axle seals: When reinstalling the axle, you'll likely need to replace the axle seals to prevent leaks.
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual for your specific year, make, and model is indispensable. It will provide precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
Again, this is a complex job. Unless you have significant automotive repair experience, taking your truck to a qualified mechanic is the safest and most efficient approach. Improperly completing this job can result in damage to your truck and potentially serious injury.
