Reverse Clutch: Assembly

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.

Before assembly, soak the internal spline clutch plates in clean automatic transmission fluid for 30 minutes.
Using the special tool, install the reverse clutch piston assembly with integral seals.

Fig 1: Installing Reverse Clutch Piston Assembly With Integral Seals
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the reverse clutch return spring assembly.

Fig 2: Locating Reverse Clutch Return Spring Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

WARNING: While removing or installing the retaining ring, slowly release tool pressure on clutch piston springs. Failure to follow this instruction may cause the assembly to separate forcefully, resulting in serious personal injury.

CAUTION: Do not compress the reverse clutch return springs completely.

Install the reverse clutch retaining ring.
- Using the special tool, compress the reverse clutch return springs.
  
  Fig 3: Compressing Reverse Clutch Return Springs Using Special Tools
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the reverse clutch plates.
1. Install the steel plates.
2. Install the friction plates.
3. Install the reverse clutch pressure plate.
  
  Fig 4: Installing Reverse Clutch, Friction & Steel Plates
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Install the reverse clutch pressure plate retainer snap ring (selective fit).

Fig 5: Locating Reverse Clutch Pressure Plate Retainer Snap Ring
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Measure the clearance between the reverse clutch pressure plate and the reverse clutch pressure plate retainer snap ring with a feeler gauge.
- Take a second measurement on the opposite side.
- Average the 2 measurements to get the clearance.
- If the clearance is not within the specifications, select and install the correct thickness retaining ring to obtain the specified clearance.
- Retaining ring sizes:
  - 1.39-1.49 mm (0.054-0.058 in).
  - 1.53-1.63 mm (0.060-0.064 in).
  - 1.68-1.78 mm (0.066-0.070 in).
    
    Fig 6: Measuring Clearance Between Reverse Clutch Pressure Plate & Reverse Clutch Pressure Plate Retainer Snap Ring
    Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.