Items 4 and 3: Forward Clutch Internal Splined Steel and External Splined Friction Plates Assembly Note

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: The forward clutch friction plates are directional and must be installed with grooves pointing counterclockwise.

CAUTION: If new plates are used, they should be soaked in clean automatic transmission fluid before assembly.

Fig 1: Installing Plates

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

If reusing plates, grooves must be installed counterclockwise. Install the direct clutch disc pack.
Install the steel clutch plates and friction clutch plates in an alternating order, starting with a steel clutch plate.

Fig 2: Installing Steel Clutch Plates And Friction Clutch Plates
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.