Well, just as I was reeling from my trans pan swap and service of trans, I found this problem (see pics)

The bracket (What is the Ford OEM name for this part?...it is not listed in service manual) is cracked near one of the mounting bolts. It appears to be a stress crack. It is cracked pretty good.

Has anyone experienced this? If so, what is entailed for removal replacement? Where can part be purchased? Hate to get another old one that has had years of heat and stress exposure.

Thoughts?

Thanks

 

Anyone out there had this problem?

 

No, but I've heard it's possible to TIG weld cast aluminum, with the right surface prep and a competent welder using a good welding machine.

This is just what I've read. I ain't ever tried it because I don't own a TIG machine... yet

 

I was thinking the same thing (TIG welding it as a repair).

Can the AC compressor be unbolted and lifted out of the way without having to disconnect the AC lines? I just serviced the AC system and do not want to incur another cost and inconvenience to have to do it again (It's not easy finding someone who services R-12 systems not to mention it is costly).

 

Been awhile since I seen a 460, but yeah you should be able to move the compressor outta your way.

 

any other advice out there?

 

Anyone out there who may have taken this bracket off their engine and can explain the removal process?

It appears the power steering pump is bolted to the bracket. How are they separated...before removal or during removal of bracket?

My goal is remove bracket and have it TIG welded. I do NOT want to remove AC compressor or its lines.

I'm hoping someone out there has taken this bracket off before and can provide some guidance and tips on removal.

Thanks!

 

I don't understand the trouble you're having. The a/c comp, like any other engine-driven pump, is connected with flexible lines to allow it to move with the engine. These lines are long enough to get the compressor out of the way once it's unbolted. All you need to disconnect from it is the clutch wiring.

As for the steering pump, after you get the pulley off (requires pulley remover/installer tool) you can see the 3 bolts that hold it to the bracket. Your choice whether to remove it before or after taking the bracket out.

If you don't have the pulley tool, any AutoZone will rent it to you for a fully refundable fee.

 

Thanks Dixie. I wasn't aware there was a special tool to remove the power steering pump pulley. Doesn't sound like too difficult a job once pulley is removed.

 

Is that the "Orange Can of Death" I see?

Back to the point, as Dixie stated, use the power steering puller (Can be rented at parts store) and then set the pump out of the way. Then with the ac unbolted, the bracket is held in by 3 or 4 bolts.

May also be a good time to flush the Power steering system if you choose to.

 

It's real easy, and if you have a Harbor Freight store near you then you can buy the pulley tool for cheaper than AZ will rent it to you. I don't have a problem with mine, but read the reviews over there and decide for yourself. Only rated 3.3 out of 5 stars.

Pulley Remover and Installer Set

Sure looks like one.
SoCal, you might wanna get that thing off your engine

 

If you are referring to the Fram filter, then yes. It was on when I purchased truck two months ago. The truck is not a daily driver. I have a Motorcraft FL-1A ready to go as soon as I fix this cracked bracket.

Since AZ doesn't charge for rentals ( fully refundable deposit), the $20 bucks for purchasing one at HF can't match AZ! I don't mind buying the tool if it works well but I don't anticipate using it very often.

 

Alright, well good luck and let us know how everything works out.

Also, not sure if you already know this or not but if you decide to flush your p/s system, it takes either Type F or plain Mercon when you refill it.