Any way to add Manual Shift on 5R55E?

[manaen]

Like the subject says, is there any way to manual shift the 5r55e, maybe to have a "up-down" rocker or two separate buttons, or maybe a button for each gear? I tow a camper and would love to tell the tranny to downshift or hold a specific gear to climb a hill. I will be pouring through the ASTM book later today but I wanted to bounce this off the tranny genius's on here

Think outside the box here...

Thanks..
Rusty

 

[BrooklynBay]

There are transmissions like this called semi-automatics. They have an electronic clutch (no clutch pedal), and the up/down buttons on the steering wheel. I've never seen one, but have heard of them. I think you would need an electronic controller like the one in the 5R55S sticky, but with this kind of user interface.

 

[manaen]

I think you would need an electronic controller like the one in the 5R55S sticky, but with this kind of user interface.

yeah, that's what I was afraid of, but I figured I would check into it.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Send Jah81592 a PM or an email about this idea. He might make another project out of it if there is sufficient interest.

 

[manaen]

I have PM'd him with the link to this message, I will be very curious to see his ideas on the topic.

 

[jah81592]

In the SCT custom tuning software I have full control of the shifts and shift schedule. So you could determine which gear you would want at what speed,etc. But there isn't a provision for manual shifting (aka paddleshifting) in the stock tuning, the trans has the capabilities but Ford doesn't have the provision in the software. If interested you can install the PCS controller and tune all this into the software and use your button controls on the steering wheel for manual shifting. I will investigate this further to see what else can be done.

 

[manaen]

Thanks for the info, you and your technical abilities are really appreciated!!

the "PCS controller" is that the one used on the 5r55w transplant?

My goal is towing performance and transmission longevity, without really spending a lot of time I'm not sure how I would pinpoint where the shifts would be best. Aren't the shifts also affected by the TPS? To get a program that would work good in all towing situations might be difficult, but you would know that better than myself. That is why I guess I gravitate to the "paddle" style manual shift it would be the best all around solution of control.

I just don't like smashing the throttle to downshift, that seems like it would be the worst thing to do on a hill with a heavy load. As apposed to a nice smooth light throttle downshift and then apply more throttle as needed.

The shift kit REALLY helped the snappiness of the up shifts and downshifts, but it didn't change the timing of the shift. How much control can you program into this thing?


Maybe I should fill you in on what I've done so far, and where I want to go with this truck (as time and money permits)

My Truck:
2001 Mounty 4.0 SOHC 4x4 4.10gears(OEM)

Mods to date:
Transgo shift kit
New EPC
Full Synth ATF
Tranny Drain Plug
2 Plate style external coolers
External tranny filter
Tranny Pressure & Temp gauges
TT Twist, Shackle, AAL (1" rake)
Air Shocks for smoother towing
New struts
Engine Replacement (long story)



Mods I need to do:
Additional Lift (probably 3" body)
Larger BFG A/T's(not sure of size dont want too big)
Exhaust (Still researching this one, something good for towing torque)
Check/Test all the sensors (TPS, MASS etc..)
K&N Air Filter/ or Intake (still researching best ( read:cost effective) option)
Weld/make Skid plates/brush guards
Better lighting on the front

I think that about covers it, what say you oh wise one of dinosaur cumbustion enhancement