Safety Warning

DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.

2001 Mazda Tribute ES, FWDFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Assembly Note

Soak the internal spline clutch plates in clean MERCON(R) Automatic Transaxle Fluid (ATF) for 30 minutes before assembly.
Install the forward clutch piston inner seal on the forward/coast/direct clutch cylinder assembly.

Fig 1: Installing Forward Clutch Piston Inner Seal
Install the forward clutch piston outer lip seal on the forward clutch piston assembly.

Fig 2: Installing Forward Clutch Piston Outer Lip Seal
Install the forward clutch piston assembly in the forward/coast/direct clutch cylinder assembly.

Fig 3: Installing Forward Clutch Piston Assembly
Install the coast clutch piston assembly onto the special tool.

Fig 4: Installing Coast Clutch Piston Assembly
Using the special tool, install the coast clutch piston into the forward clutch piston assembly.

Fig 5: Installing Coast Clutch Piston
Install the forward/coast clutch return spring assembly.

Fig 6: Installing Forward/Coast Clutch Return Spring Assembly

Factory Service Tools

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.