Can I swap my tranny for a later model?

[93explorereb]

I understand that the current tranny in my explorer is weak. Could I simply swap it out for another, but newer later model, with minimal alterations? 93 Explorer Eddie Bauer edition. Thanks!

 

[MrShorty]

I'm not sure, but my impression has been that a 5R55E is supposed to be, mechanically, very similar to your A4LD (same bellhousing bolt pattern if taken from a 4.0 L engine, similar size and mounting). As such, I believe a 5R55E should "fit" in your '93 ok.
The main difficulty with putting a later model transmission into your '93 is that most (if not all) newer transmissions are fully electronically controlled, where your A4LD is only partially controlled electronically, so your PCM doesn't have the ability to control a newer transmission. It's been a while since it's been discussed, but somebody makes a stand-alone controller for the 5R55E ($$$) that you would also need. Somebody used it to put a 5R55S into a 2nd gen Explorer; you might review that thread to see what was involved in installing the controller.

 

[HahnsB2]

An M5OD is more reliable, swaps right in, and doesn't rely on computer/electronics to shift