5r55w in '99

[don4331]

Can one put a 5R55W into a '99 Ranger without PCM or GEM having heart failure? Truck currently has blown 5R55E.

 

[Dirtman]

Nope different gear ratios, so different computer. Also different style bell housing, and no dipstick.

 

[don4331]

4.0 bellhousing is 4.0 bellhousing. Lost of dipstick isn't critical.

And I wouldn't mind the better ratios of the newer transmission, but I'm just not sure how much the computer can accommodate.

 

[Dirtman]

The ratios aren't better, they are wider between 2 and 3 (that's what the W means). The W will have an intermediate shaft sensor that your current trans doesn't. Not a big deal, you can just ignore that because it's only for the adaptive shift control and your computer doesn't have that capability. The physical harness and connector is also different, you could rig that up since it uses the same basic system of solenoids. It would probably even drive but it would be forever stuck in limp mode and the od light flashing for all eternity.

Maybe it's possible to get the PCM tuned to make it work? Not sure never heard of anyone trying this.

I'm assuming you happen to have one of these things laying around because 5r55e's aren't rare or expensive so I cant see any other reason to attempt this. My advice would be to sell the w and find an e.

 

[don4331]

Lower 1st of the 'W' (3.22 vs 2.47) would be equivalent to swapping the 3.27s in axle for 4.30s without any hit to mileage. Ranger is primarily city vehicle, so could use a little pep.

I hadn't heard of anyone else doing it, hence the question.

All the Rangers in local recyclers currently are there cause of blown 'E's. And local transmission job want arm &leg to rebuild.

Thanks for responding.

 

[Transman304]

Completely different computer strategies. Electrical connectors are not even close and the W has more sensors.

 

[no class]

If you find a 3.0 or 2.3 auto you can swap the bell housing with the 4.0 trans.
I just did the reverse (4.0 trans swapped to 3.0 bell) in my 99.