5R55E Fluid, Quality Mercon V or Royal Purple ATF?

[Todd82TA]

Hey guys,

I hate to post something if it's been posted over and over. I know that my 2002 Explorer Sport with the 5R55E and 4.0 SOHC need to use Mercon V for the transmission fluid, correct?

I'm running into some weird issues, and my first thought was to change the fluid and filter just to make sure everything is as it should be before I attempt any crazy repairs like valve body replacements or a whole transmission rebuild.

I don't mind spending a little extra money and I was thinking about going with Royal Purple's Extreme ATF. I like their engine oil, and I wanted to know what you guys think about using their product in my transmission?


As a side note, I used Redline Synthetic ATF in my 2002 Crown Victoria when I changed the fluid at about 35k miles a year ago. The transmission shifts beautifully, but I did notice a slight change. The transmission isn't as CRISP on the shift from 1st to 2nd at wide open throttle.

I reflashed my ECM and the line pressure is INSANE. With 2.73:1 gears with my slightly modded 4.6 SOHC, the Crown Vic would break the tires loose in the shift from 1st to 2nd, and it would slam you into the back of your seat (car runs about a high 14 when the planets align, but normally a flat 15 in the quarter based on identical mods to other Vic owners who have the same model / upgrades). I can only assume that the ATF fluid from Redline that I used reduced the friction capacity... but not really in a bad way. The car still shifts like a bat out of hell, but it's rare now if it breaks the tires loose from 1st to 2nd.


I'm worried I may have a sticking solenoid (2 to 3 flare-up) and I'm considering possibly adding Z-Max. I don't want to be one of those lame people who add all kinds of lame crap to their engine and transmission (snake oil), but I was thinking, what's the worst that can happen if I add a bottle to my transmission?


I'm also going to be installing a new filter and a Mr. Gasket drain plug as well (probably weld it in).


I figured I would post this here to see what you guys thought before I did this. FYI, I would be using Royal Purple's ATF fluid, not the Redline stuff.



Thanks!!!

Todd

2002 Ford Explorer Sport 4.0 / 5R55E

 

[CDW6212R]

Hello Todd, first don't use the Zmax, they are being sued right now for fraudulent claims. I like Amsoil products and their ATF, but the others will do also.

Start reading about the 5R55E in threads here. There are plenty of things you can do, and a few that you really should. I'd most recommend a valve body kit, they are not shift kits, there aren't any for the 5R55E. They are improvement kits, all the VB's need some help.