1997 (5R55E) Tranny Woos.....HELP!

[explorer72]

Well I have a 97 4x4 SOHC with I believe a 5R55E (its a 5 speed auto) and my tranny has started to act up. I started noticing some funky shifting a few months ago and knew the end was coming but it feels now like it is getting much closer. At the moment it seems to shift ok (no slipping/missed gears) but as I'm coming to a stop I feel/hear a 'bong' when it down shifts into first. I also feel a little shutter in the brake pedal when it does this as well. Any ideas? Glacier OH GURU of all things Transmission, how much does a rebuild kit cost for one of these Trans? Is it a DIY project for an 'average' DIY'er with a modest set of tools? Is it better to have a shop rebuild your existing Trans or buy a rebuild one say from Ebay? I guess this is what I get for driving my Explorer like a NASCAR. All input would be most appreicated!

 

[BrooklynBay]

When was the last time the fluid was changed? Did you see any fragments in the pan when you opened it up last? From what you are describing, I would say that one of the solenoids is acting up, which would be a good time to do a valve body rebuild. These particular electronic valve bodies control all of the shift functions, and could cause intermittent shift problems like the ones you are having. Not every transmission problem requires an entire rebuild.

 

[explorer72]

The trans fluid was flushed and refilled at 78k and it has about 101k on it now. Does anyone know how much a value body rebuild kit is? Also, since I'm handling it now (taking it all apart) wouldn't it be wise just to rebuild/replace the entire thing? I drive this truck to death everyday and don't have time to be down too much so I need to do whatever opinion is going to be the most reliable for the longest amount of time. Of course cost is a factor too, I'd rather spend a few hundred as opposed to a few thousand.

 

[JJScorpio]

I have the same tranny you have and my prob are worse. I have been tryting to get diagnosed for months but every shop talks total rebuild and says words like "junk" and it really gets agravating. Mine slips bad from second into drive to where I have to let off the gas until it catches. Without even looking at it they say get a fac rebuild and be done with it but I really dont want to spend 2 grand if it doesnt need it. If I were you I would do a filter and fluid change and check what is in the pan.....

 

[Glacier991]

Then go read the 5R55E Valve Body rebuild diary above. Now remember there is no guarantee that is going to solve your problem, but then it MIGHT, and even if it doesn't on a rebuild you are WAY ahead of the game.

 

[explorer72]

Yeah I thumbed through that rebuild and there is some great info/detaisl to follow. How much does it cost total for all the parts? Also what special tools do you need if any to complete the project?

 

[BrooklynBay]

If you are going to do a total valve body rebuild with all of the modifications, and new solenoids (not Ford solenoids), then it would probably be a few hundred. You don't need specialty tools for the valve body, just picks, sockets, gasket scraper, torque wrench, etc. A total rebuild would be an additional few hundred besides this. If you need a lot of hard parts, then that is where it gets to be expensive. Either way, I don't think you would have to replace every part that it has. If you open the front pump, you will need a special front pump alignment tool that is very expensive. Seal ring alignment tools are not necessary, but would be recommended. Look at the A4LD rebuild diary, Project Frankentranny, 5R55E valve body rebuild diary, and the A4LD rebuild diary first before starting this project. They show tools, disassembly, reassembly, and other useful information. The pictures are better than any manual that you will find, but it is also recommended to buy the ATSG rebuild manual, and the Ford manual to see step by step diagrams of the whole procedure.