Which transmission do I have?

[Swamp Fox]

I have a 2004 Explorer XLT 4WD V6. What code on the truck will tell me what transmission I have? Can anyone tell me what I have? Thanks.

 

[Ronin8002]

You have a 5r55s

 

[Swamp Fox]

Thanks for the info. Do you or anyone else here know of the best rebuild kit for this transmission whether improved Ford or aftermarket? I am researching but it's good to have the opinion of a group of people that have and value this vehicle.

 

[Ronin8002]

Thanks for the info. Do you or anyone else here know of the best rebuild kit for this transmission whether improved Ford or aftermarket? I am researching but it's good to have the opinion of a group of people that have and value this vehicle.

this thread has some great info:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=318184

The Electrician wheels his truck pretty hard so if the Level Ten kit works out for him I am sure it will do fine for most other people.

 

[2002GreyHD150]

if you wnat more than just a stock replacement, then the only (2) options I know of for complete "performance" units are:

Level 10

Performance Automatic

They both are HUGE in the Mustang crowd and now have street/strip hardcore level down to basic street/strip units. $2,500-up...

I'm not thinking "if" our 5r55s dies... WHEN it does (183K and rolling strong) I will be installing the Performance Automatic, with the large pan, the dip-stick conversion, and a lil bump in stall. I have budgeted $3,000 to my door.

That's alot of $$ huh? figure to have a stock 5r55w/s rebuilt and the solenoid bore problem & the other lil tricks addressed you will spend easily $2,200+ including out/in labor. food for thought.

The modern Ford Automatic is not for the novice or shade tree mechanic to tackle a rebuild. Service tools and other assembly issues are just too vast. the basic rebuild kit and solenoid repair parts etc... looking like $500-ish I think. could be off on that. Its all about the knowledge and the tools needed.

Rob

 

[Swamp Fox]

Thanks for the replies. I have no intention of doing it myself. Just want to find the best option if it needs to be done. Just trying to plan. I will investigate your replies.

One last question: Could I use the Performance Automatic option if I just wanted to undo some design ills and have a fortified option that will last longer for an unmodified V6? Will the drivability be improved with this option?

Thanks again.

 

[2002GreyHD150]

the PA for the mustang would work fine. But its a bit overboard for an unmodified v6. or one where there is no intention of modifying.

I would research local shops, since you are not turning the wrenches and you will have a parts AND labor warranty through them.

When choosing a Transmission shop, price is NOT what to shop for. Warranty, reputation, BBB rating, and lots of positive word of mouth. Ask around the larger, independent automotive services and see who they use. those shops have to warranty the labor for the transmission shops rebuild. So they don't want to do the work twice or more.

Also read up in the various regional Ford enthusiast forums. See who the mustang guys are trusting with their cars.

Another good sign is a trans shop that promotes/supports local race tracks. A sign they are local/community focused and worry about their reputation.

The 5r55's are not an easy transmission to rebuild correctly. Ask questions about the servo bore repair/solution, if they look at you with a blank look, RUN AWAY no matter how good the reputation.

Rob

 

[Swamp Fox]

The most I ever planned on doing to the truck engine wise was aftermarket exhaust starting with headers and then going all the way back and maybe a cold air intake. My main goal for the transmission was to have something intentionally overbuilt for long service and function. Don't know if we will keep our Ex for a long time but I do like it. Still can't get over that crossover thing they now call an Explorer.

 

[Ronin8002]

IMO headers are a waste on the 4.0 SOHC unless you are doing forced induction or nitrous. A different muffler is worthwhile for the sound if nothing else...not sure the factory pipes are really all that restrictive seeing as they use the same size for the V-6 and the V-8.

 

[Swamp Fox]

Just a thought as far as headers. Probably won't if that is the case. Definitely at least a less restrictive air intake. Bad thing is '04 seems to be the one year that's oddball for aftermarket intakes. Seems as though I remember someone hear took a stab at putting together one from parts. The truck runs fine but I also wonder about rebuilding the 4.0 SOHC. Unless I don't know where to look it doesn't appear as though there are a ton of options for a upgraded engine. Here a again my aim would be for overbuilt, smooth and balanced operation for long life. Just speculating so it doesn't cost to research.