Opinions on having a spare 5r55e tarsmission on hand

[ptf18]

Ive got a '02 Sport Trac and '02 Ranger both with the 5r55e transmission. Both are 2WD. The S/T has 202k miles on it and the Ranger has 175k. We bought both cars new and both have been driven "gently" ie no trailers, heavy loads, no racing, hard driving, etc.

Neither vehicles display ANY transmission problems.... at this time. I changes fluid and filters at 150k in both vehicles using Ford filters and fluid. I thoroughly flushed the fluid systems ie coolers, lines,etc.

BUT... with the known "issues" of these Ford transmissions I would like to know the groups opinion on having a "spare" transmission on hand?

Its not a money issue as we intend to keep the cars until we're.... very old as they both are in excellent condition. I have done the maintenance religiously.

My thoughts are to get a "used" transmissio,n Rebuild it, and have it on hand as a spare.

Thoughts?

Secondly. I there a sticky on the Board that lists any/all of the "modifications" and kits to do so that should be done to the 5r55e transmissions?

 

[ptf18]

Fellows: No opinions on having a spare?

 

[drdoom]

Eh, I wouldn't be to concerned about. Now I am certainly no expert not even close, but in my limited experience the weak link is the transfer case, and since you have RWD, not an issue for you. Second I would rate the torque converter as the next weak link. BUT if I found a really cheap used unit I would absolutely consider it, or even a whole parts truck those are dirt cheap.

 

[RangerX]

I don't think anyone will tell you it's a bad idea to keep spare parts.