I took a 4R70W from a 2003 F-150 and slapped it into a 1999 E-150. When I plugged in the driveshaft, the transmission was too long. There are two different length tailshafts for the 4R70W. The newer transmission in the older van is the shorter one. I swapped tailshaft housings (added the longer housing) and everything matches up. The problem is that the tailshaft is about two inches shorter, however, it is engaged with the driveshaft. Am I going to have any troubles running this transmission?

 

You should have about an inch or so gap so the suspension can flex. If you have more than that, then you need to pick one up at a junk yard. I can get them for like 40 bucks with the flanges at local yards. So thats always an option.

 

You could have also had the 8.8 rear which uses a longer drive shaft to reach the trans. Lots of variations.

 

Yeah, you'll break the tailshaft running it like that. You could always get the driveshaft shortened.