Does ANYONE out there know what the trick or method is to re-installing the transmission pan to a '97 F-150 (4WD/4.6/Supercab)?
I got the pan down and out, cleaned the pan, installed new gasket and filter. Got all of this done and the pan will NOT go back into place. There is an (approx) 1/8" wide welded strap affixed to the crossmember which prevents the rear of the pan from sliding easily up into place. If you tilt up on the front of the pan (the end closest to the front wheels) and attempt to tap it into place, the gasket shreds. I've tried every way possible to get the pan back in, but it won't go.

I have done many transmission services and have never seen the re-installation of the pan be more work then the rest of it.

Does ANYONE know how Ford does this (if someone brings their vehicle into their service depts)??

Thanks very much for any asssistance here.

 

Sorry I can't share any personal experience. You have a 4x4 I have a 2wd. Only the 4x4 has the crossmember. However, I can tell you that I have read in this forum where some guys have actually cut a notch in the crossmember to make it work. I suggest you use the search engine look for the thread. Otherwise, my response will float this thread to the top and maybe some one else will remember the thread.

Good Luck!