NOTE: The ring gear is replaceable only on engines mated with
a manual transmission. Engine with automatic transmissions have ring gears which
are welded to the flexplate.
- Remove the transmission.
- Remove the clutch, if equipped, or torque converter from the flywheel. The
flywheel bolts should be loosened a little at a time in a cross pattern to
avoid warping the flywheel. On trucks with manual transmission, replace the
pilot bearing in the end of the crankshaft if removing the flywheel.
- The flywheel should be checked for cracks and glazing. It can be resurfaced
by a machine shop.
- If the ring gear is to be replaced, drill a hole in the gear between two
teeth, being careful not to contact the flywheel surface. Using a cold chisel
at this point, crack the ring gear and remove it.
- Polish the inner surface of the new ring gear and heat it in an oven to
about 600°F (315°C). Quickly place the ring gear on the flywheel
and tap it into place, making sure that it is fully seated.
NOTE: Never heat the ring gear past 800°F (426°C),
or the tempering will be destroyed.
- Installation is the reverse of removal. To install the flywheel, first put
it into position and then install the bolts loosely.
- Torque the bolts a little at a time in a cross pattern, to the torque figure
shown in the Torque Specifications Chart.
