Center Support: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford RV Cutaway, 2004 Ford Econoline, 2004 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2004 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Note the location of the seal ring ends and how they overlap for correct assembly.

Fig 1: Removing Direct Clutch Seal Rings

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove and discard the direct clutch seal rings.
Remove the No. 6 thrust washer.

Fig 2: Removing No. 6 Thrust Washer
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using the special tool, remove the intermediate piston return spring snap ring.

Fig 3: Removing Intermediate Piston Return Spring Snap Ring
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the intermediate piston return spring.

Fig 4: Removing Intermediate Piston Return Spring
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove and discard the intermediate piston.

Fig 5: Removing Intermediate Piston
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Inspect the new intermediate piston.
1. Inspect the intermediate piston inner and outer seals.
2. Inspect the check ball for free movement.
  
  Fig 6: Inspecting Check Ball For Free Movement
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: If the sealing surface or the bushing show signs of damage or wear, a new center support must be installed.

Inspect the center support for damage or wear.
1. Inspect the center support bushing.
2. Inspect the center support sealing surface.
  - Verify that the air bleed orifice located on the center support is in the 12:00 o'clock position and is not clogged.
    Apply air from the piston side of the center support to verify that the bleed orifice is clear.
    
    Fig 7: Applying Air From Piston Side Of Center Support
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.