Lincoln 9L8Z-7F465-H Planet Gear Assembly

On AWD models, the manufacturer uses an Active Torque Control Coupling (ATCC) to manage power distribution to the front and rear wheels. Normally, the front wheels receive the majority of the torque produced by the engine. When the ATCC system senses wheel slip, it automatically increases the torque to the rear wheels. The system is always active, continuously monitoring vehicle conditions and adjusting the torque being delivered to the rear wheels by controlling the current sent to an electric clutch device inside the rear axle. The ATCC system has no mode selector nor does it require any driver input. The ATCC solenoid in the rear axle is not repairable and must be replaced with the rear axle assembly as a unit. To do this, raise the rear of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Block the front wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Remove the driveshaft, driveaxles, and the rear stabilizer bar. Support the rear axle housing with a floor jack. Disconnect the electrical connector on the cross member. There are four rear differential mounting brackets securing the differential to the sub-frame, one at either side at the top-front of the assembly and two at the top-rear. Remove the four bolts (two each side) securing the differential to each front bracket. Loosen the two front mounting brackets from the sub-frame and swing the brackets out to allow clearance to lower the rear differential. Remove the five bolts securing the differential to the rear mounting brackets. Lower the differential with the floor Jack. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten all fasteners to the torque.

Starting with 2008 models, AWD cars use an ATCC that sends most power to the front wheels by default but can switch the power if it spots wheel slipping. When it sees tire movement, the ATCC system turns up power to the rear wheels and checks vehicle conditions on the go, all through a rear axle clutch that runs on electricity. You can't repair the ATCC because it works on its own and isn't controlled by a mode selector or your input. Even its electric solenoid needs the entire rear axle replaced if something breaks. Before working on the differential, lift the rear of your vehicle and use jackstands to hold it in place. Don't let it roll by blocking your front wheels. Separate the driveshaft and driveaxles, move the rear stabilizer aside on Five Hundred and Montego models, and place it forward for easier work clearance. While maintaining support under the differential with a jack, remove and detach all electrical connections. First take off the four bolts holding the differential to the subframe, loosen the front mounting brackets to get space, and then remove the six bolts from the rear brackets. Secure the stationary floor jack beneath the differential. Cut off the leftover power wires and drop down the floor jack for support. The installation follows the exact opposite steps used for disassembly, making sure all screws get tightened to the correct pressure.