Center Support: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 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.

Remove and discard the direct clutch seal rings.

Fig 1: Direct Clutch Seal Rings

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the No. 6 thrust washer.

Fig 2: Locating No. 6 Thrust Washer

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Using the Clutch Spring Compressor Aligner and Clutch Spring Compressor, remove the intermediate piston return spring snap ring.

Fig 3: Identifying Intermediate Piston Return Spring Snap Ring With Special Tools

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the intermediate piston return spring.

Fig 4: Intermediate Piston Return Spring

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove and discard the intermediate piston.

Fig 5: Locating 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: Intermediate Piston Inner And Outer Seals And Check Ball

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.
3. Verify that the air bleed orifice located on the center support is in the 12 o'clock position and is not clogged. Apply air pressure from the piston side of the center support to verify that the bleed orifice is clear.

Fig 7: Center Support Bushing And Sealing Surface

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.