Does anyone know what the part numbers in the service manual refer too? For instance, in the '96 service manual, whenever they show the exploded parts diagram, the associated number is shown in a table on the next page. That table will have a part number, but it isn't the Ford part number. For example, on page 05-03A-5 of the attached, the number of the part is 45. On the table on the next page, 45 shows part number 3B403 with description of "Axle Rolling Diaphragm Seal". After attempts to locate this part at 4 different parts stores, a poster gave me the Nappa parts number and I was able to get the part. Had I had the Ford part number, the other stores could've located it. You would think the Ford Service Manual would have the actual part number, but it doesn't. Is there any kind of cross reference, or meaning to the number listed in the service manual?

 

The "3B403" is the "base" or "callout" number. That is basically the identifying number for that part on every Ford. To get the correct part there's a prefix and suffix to every part number (except standard hardware parts) that identifies "your" part. Ford updates part numbers so often that a paper catalog can't keep up. Best is to take a base number and get the current part number from a Ford dealer ...... or Bill. Just an example ONLY the Ford number would be like F4TZ-3B403-AB.

http://www.fordification.com/tech/pa...s_overview.htm

 

Fixed it for you, #46 is basic part number for 3B403.

Only basic Ford part numbers are shown in shop manuals and the illustrations of parts catalogs.

Ford is infamous for updating/replacing 10's of the 1000's of part numbers every year!