Fix the 5R55E or sell the Explorer?

[markhas1]

I have been reading the 5R55E Valve body rebuild diary and believe that it might fix my problems (http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=140987&page=1&pp=20). Ford N Scottsdale quoted me $550 for TSB 3-22-10 which will be about $650+ after I also replace the EPC solenoid. I believe I could do this myself, but I dread the Mercon V bath.

I have a '98 XLT SOHC 4x4 with about 109,000 miles on it and have never had any problems with it. Dec last year I started getting an occasional 2-3 flare, which prompted me to have the fluid and filter replaced. This didn't fix the problem and I lived with the condition since then, however now I am also getting delayed and early shifts (hunting), with an occasional hard shift. Since the condition is getting worse I either need to fix it or make it someone elses problem. I really like the Explorer and think I could have another couple years of life if I get this fixed.

Is this Valve Body rebuild the answer or am I facing a complete rebuild? What life expectancy does the 5R55E have? Is there any reputable tranny shop in the Phoenix AZ area that someone could recommend?

 

[je5]

I would fix it given the conditions you state. I have one for a 1998 that I would sell you for a fraction of that price as long as I got your core for rebuilding.

 

[markhas1]

Are you talking the entire tranny or just the valve body?

 

[je5]

Whatever you want but I think you just want to replace the VB and solenoids for now.

 

[markhas1]

Overheating too...

I am now noticing another problem which might be related to the recent worsening of the transmission. I am overheating when in motion (az temps probably aren't helping). I also have a high idle condition (TPS/IAC?). I am wondering if these problems are related in some way. Does this sound like the transmission has more serious problems? The shifts are all still working.

 

[je5]

I am now noticing another problem which might be related to the recent worsening of the transmission. I am overheating when in motion (az temps probably aren't helping). I also have a high idle condition (TPS/IAC?). I am wondering if these problems are related in some way. Does this sound like the transmission has more serious problems? The shifts are all still working.

If the tranny is slipping it will overheat the radiator if you still have the internal cooler in the rad..

 

[markhas1]

Your VB

Does the one you are selling come with new soleniods, upgraded Ford TSB parts or shift kit?

 

[smfitz]

Hi to all new member here i see i have lots to learn

 

[BrooklynBay]

Sensor inputs play a major role on the operation of the transmission even though those sensors are mounted on the engine. If the TPS is bad, it will prevent you from going into the proper gears, and prevent the torque converter from locking up. The transmission has shift solenoids. If it doesn't know that there is a needed damand to change gears in relation to the vehicle's speed, and wide open throttle, then it will lock on the wrong gear ratio, and slip. As far as internals of the transmission, you could have loose valve body bolts, bad valve body gaskets, low EPC pressure from a defective EPC solenoid, or maybe a clogged cooler restricting fluid circulation, and causing the transmission to overheat.