Hey guys,

Just bought a 1997 F-150XL 2WD automatic, and dropped a reman motor in it. The one in the truck had been hydrolocked so i got the whole truck for dirt cheap.

Also, with the engine i replaced the water pump, starter, brakes and rotors, fuel filter, alternator, and radiator. Basically the only thing i am thinking might still go is the original tranny. What kind of reputation doe this model have? The truck has 137,XXX miles on it originally before i overhauled everything. Once again, it is the 4.2L 2WD automatic tranny.

Any info?

Thanks

Zak

 

Well, if the tranny is a 4R70W, then 137K is not too high a mileage....if the unit has been reasonably well maintained. I have a '94 Lincoln Town Car with the AODE, the earlier version of the 4R70W, and at 160K the tran works perfectly. I have seen many examples of that transmission series running beyond 400K with proper maintenance.

If the tran is shifting smoothly and running quietly, then I'd just go with it. I suggest, however, that the tran and torque converter be drained, a new filter installed, an auxilliary oil cooler added (unless the truck has one already) and refilled with ATF+4....yep, ATF+4. If you check the specs on Mercon V you will find that its applications include Chrysler 3 and 4; therefore, Chrysler 3 and 4 can be used where Mercon V is used. The advantage of ATF+4 is that it is the highest quality major-brand fluid and has a service life about 30% longer than Mercon V. In addition, ATF+4 is specifically designed to prevent clutch and band shudder.

My recently-purchased '97 XLT 4R70W (125K miles) smoothed up noticeably when it was serviced and the Ford fluid (which was pink and sweet smelling) was drained and replaced with ATF+4....this on the advice and practice of my local tranny service shop of 40+ years experience. (Stan's Transmission, Daytona Beach)

 

Thanks for the reply. I do know the truck was ran hard by the previous owner as it was a construction truck, but the tranny does function smoothly as of now. I did drain the T.C. and tranny when i changed the motor as well, so hopefully that helps make this thing last.

Anyone else have an opinion?