FM146 Input Bearing question

[beecubed]

I have searched the forums and have seen a lot of reference and recommendations to replace the input bearing on an FM146 transmission when you have a chance (transmission out of the car), as that is a component that is prone to failure. Is this something fairly simple to do? It appears that the front of these transmissions (behind the bellhousing) have a "bearing retainer plate" that comes off, allowing you to perhaps replace the bearing without breaking into the transmission case.

Am I reading this right? Any help is appreciated.

Thank you,

Bernie

 

[engdept]

You are correct.

You will need the following parts:
- tube of RTV to seal the bearing plate
- front seal
- front bearing

 

[MAKG]

You are correct.

You will need the following parts:
- tube of RTV to seal the bearing plate
- front seal
- front bearing

You forgot:

- A clamshell puller or the wherewithall to make your own tool or otherwise figure out how to pull that bearing off by its snap ring.

No, you don't have to tear into the case. Removing that bearing is the first step in tearing into the case. But it is, by far, the most difficult step.

 

[engdept]

You forgot:

- A clamshell puller or the wherewithall to make your own tool or otherwise figure out how to pull that bearing off by its snap ring.

That is true!

 

[beecubed]

Thank you

Thank you for the quick replies. I will tackle this, soon.

Bernie

 

[beecubed]

Removing the bearing?

Hello again. I just removed the front plate from the transmission, and have the shaft/bearing exposed. The bearing actually moves or "pulls out" from the tranny just enough to allow something to get behind the snap ring. This appears normal...

I don't want to ruin anything - what is the proper sequence for removing the bearing? Do I need to take off the retainer from the input shaft? I believe I pull against the shaft to get the bearing to move out of the case, but wanted to check. Is this covered in the Ford manual?

Sorry for all the questions, but don't want to ruin anything.

Thank you,

Bernie