RAM 1500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (2002)
INSPECTION
Inspect the front clutch components. Replace the clutch discs if warped, worn, scored, burned or charred, the lugs are damaged, or if the facing is flaking
off. Replace the steel plates and reaction plate if heavily scored, warped, or broken. Be sure the driving lugs on the discs and plate are also in good
condition. The lugs must not be bent, cracked or damaged in any way.
Replace the piston springs and spring retainer if either are distorted, warped or broken.
Check the lug grooves in the clutch piston retainer. The steel plates should slide freely in the slots. Replace the piston retainer if the grooves are worn or
damaged. Also check action of the check ball in the piston retainer. The ball must move freely and not stick.
Replace the retainer bushing if worn, scored, or there is any doubt about bushing condition.
Inspect the piston and retainer seal surfaces for nicks or scratches. Minor scratches can be removed with crocus cloth. However, replace the piston and/or
retainer if the seal surfaces are seriously scored.
Check the clutch piston check ball. The ball should be securely in place. Replace the piston if the ball is missing, or seized in place.
Assembly
46RE - Automatic Transmission
ASSEMBLY
NOTE: The 46RE transmission uses three plates and discs for the front clutch.
1. Mount Bushing Installer SP-5511 on tool handle (Fig. 106).
2. Slide new bushing onto installer tool and start bushing into retainer.
3. Tap new bushing into place until installer tool bottoms against clutch retainer.
4. Remove installer tools and clean retainer thoroughly.
5. Soak clutch discs in transmission fluid.
6. Install new inner piston seal onto the outer diameter of the clutch retainer inner hub.
7. Install new outer seal onto the clutch piston. Be sure seal lips of both seals face the interior of the retainer.
8. Lubricate new inner and outer piston seals with Ru-Glyde, or Mopar Door Ease.
9. Install clutch piston in retainer. Use twisting motion to seat piston in bottom of retainer. A thin strip of plastic (about 0.015 - 0.020 inch thick), can
be used to guide seals into place if necessary.
