Low/Reverse Mechanical Diode

The low/reverse clutch mechanical diode is a OWC which also functions as the low/reverse clutch pressure plate. The low/reverse mechanical diode has fewer external splines than the coast clutch mechanical diode. The low/reverse mechanical diode external splines mate with the case and the internal splines mate with the reverse ring gear/reverse planet assembly.

In 1st and 2nd gears, the center shaft drives the forward cylinder clockwise. The forward clutch is applied and holds the forward ring gear, driving it clockwise. The forward planet provides a counterclockwise resisting torque and the forward/reverse sun gear is driven counterclockwise. The low reverse clutch is released. The low/reverse mechanical diode holds the reverse planet carrier body and allows the forward/reverse sun gear to drive the reverse planet gears which in turn drive the output shaft ring gear and hub assembly. The forward planet and output shaft hub are both splined to the output shaft.

Mechanical diodes are model dependent. The higher RPM of the gasoline engines require a mechanical diode unique from that used on higher torque diesel engines.

Fig 1: Low/Reverse Mechanical Diode - One-Way Clutch

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.