RAM 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (2002)
Clutch: Description and Operation
Overrunning Clutch
46RE - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
OVERRUNNING CLUTCH CAM/OVERDRIVE PISTON RETAINER
DESCRIPTION
The overrunning clutch (Fig. 202) consists of an inner race, an outer race (or cam), rollers and springs, and the spring retainer. The number of rollers and
springs depends on what transmission and which overrunning clutch is being dealt with.
OPERATION
As the inner race is rotated in a clockwise direction (as viewed from the front of the transmission), the race causes the rollers to roll toward the springs,
causing them to compress against their retainer. The compression of the springs increases the clearance between the rollers and cam. This increased
clearance between the rollers and cam results in a freewheeling condition. When the inner race attempts to rotate counterclockwise, the action causes the
rollers to roll in the same direction as the race, aided by the pushing of the springs. As the rollers try to move in the same direction as the inner race, they
are wedged between the inner and outer races due to the design of the cam. In this condition, the clutch is locked and acts as one unit.
