FORD AXODE (AX4S), AX4N (4F50N) - Exploded Vane Rings And Pump Rotors Pump Bearing Changes

CHANGE: Beginning at the start of production for 2000 on all AX4N transaxles and 2001 on all AX4S transaxles, Ford Motor Company introduced a new design pump bearing that includes an integrated seal, as shown in Figure 1. When this new design bearing and seal assembly went into production, it was installed with the seal on the valve body side of the pump instead of the rotor side. This change is what will greatly reduce the failed bearings, broken pump rotors and vane rings. This procedure is now recommended for all units of this family, even if you are using the previous design level bearing and "Nickel" seal, as shown in Figure 2.

REASON: As stated above, greatly reduced pump bearing, pump rotor and vane ring failure, for much improved durability and reliability.

INTSTALLATION PROCEDURE:
AXOD/AXODE (AX4S) - When using the 1st Design bearing with the "Nickel" Seal, install the seal on the valve body side, with the part number facing up, as shown in Figure 2.
When using the 2nd Design bearing with the integrated seal, install the bearing assembly with the integrated seal facing the valve body side, as shown in Figure 2.  The 2nd Design Bearing and Seal assembly will retro-fit back on all AXOD, AXODE and the AX4N up through 1999.
AX4N (4F50N) - When using the 2nd Design AX4S bearing with the integrated seal on 95-99 models, install the bearing assembly with the integrated seal facing the valve body as shown in Figure 2. When using the 2nd Design AX4N bearing assembly with the integrated seal, install the bearing assembly with the integrated seal facing the valve body side, as shown in Figure 2. The 2nd Design AX4N bearing assembly will fit only 2000 models and later because of the increased diameter (See Figure 1).

Many thanks to "Transtar Industries" for providing us the information on this bearing.