In-Vehicle Repair: Flexplate: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Mariner and 2006 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Special bolts are used for installation. Do not use standard bolts.

Install the flexplate and tighten the bolts in the sequence shown in 3 stages.
- Stage 1: Tighten to 50 N.m (37 lb-ft).
- Stage 2: Tighten to 80 N.m (50 lb-ft).
- Stage 3: Tighten to 112 N.m (83 lb-ft).
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Flexplate Bolts Tightening Sequence
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the automatic transaxle. For additional information, refer to AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE-TRANSMISSION - CD4E .