Explorer 4WD V6-4.0L (2009)
19. Remove the 20 bolts and 2 nuts along the outside of the cylinder block cradle.
20. NOTE: Note the location of the 2 silver-colored bolts that have washer seals. They must be installed in the same position with new washer seals.
Remove the 8 cylinder block cradle inner bolts and the 2 washer seals.
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Discard the washer seals.
21. Raise the engine.
AWD vehicles
22. WARNING: Secure the assembly to the jack. Avoid any obstructions while lowering and raising the jack. Contact with obstructions may
cause the assembly to fall off the jack, which may result in serious personal injury.
Support the front axle with a suitable jack.
23. Disconnect the vent hose from the axle housing vent tube.
24. NOTICE: Any time bolts, washers, spacers or nuts are loosened in the axle housing for any reason, install new components to prevent
damage.
Remove and discard the 3 axle housing bolts and 3 flagnuts. Lower the axle.
All vehicles
25. Remove the cylinder block cradle.
Installation
All vehicles
1. NOTICE: Failure to back off the set screws may result in damage to the cylinder block cradle.
Back the set screws off until they are below the cylinder block cradle boss.
2. NOTICE: Do not use metal scrapers, wire brushes, power abrasive discs or other abrasive means to clean the sealing surfaces. These tools
cause scratches and gouges which make leak paths. Use a plastic scraping tool to remove all traces of the old cylinder block cradle gasket
and sealant.
NOTE: Gasket material as well as silicone sealant may be present in the cavities in the main bearing cap. This material must be removed
completely prior to assembly.
Clean the gasket mating surfaces, making sure all the sealant is removed from the cavities on the rear main bearing cap. To clean the sealing area,
use a plastic scraping tool, silicone gasket remover and metal surface prep. Follow the directions on the packaging.
