Replacing 4R44E: Additional Sensors on New Unit

[cahman]

Transmission went out in my 1998 3.0 Ranger. I'm swapping it with one from a newer ranger ('03 I think). I believe it is a 5R44E, although my understanding is it should interchange.

The new unit has two additional connectors on it. Both are two pin jobbers. In the picture: new tranny in the front. One connector is right above the gear position indicator. The other is just below the transmission vent. They look like sensors to me. Maybe a temp sensor and a speed sensor?


Thanks,
Cahman

 

[Dirtman]

They are intermediate and output speed sensors.

 

[RonD]

You just leave them unconnected, its the OSS and ISS sensors

Your 1998 computer calculates output shaft speed(OSS) using signal from GEM and rear axle VSS

Only the 5R computers used the ISS sensor and OSS sensor, which is why you can't swap the other way, a 4R trans into a 5R vehicle, the computer in the 5R NEEDS those two sensors

You do need to swap over your Range sensor(DTR sensor) on the shift rod, 5R model won't work with your 4R wiring


I did read about OD shift issuse but I think that was just the "used" transmission blues, not a compatibility issue, but can't say for sure

 

[cahman]

Thanks for your replies!

You do need to swap over your Range sensor(DTR sensor) on the shift rod, 5R model won't work with your 4R wiring

I also have a 99 ranger 3.0 4WD. I went to replace the DTR sensor on it. I ordered the "4 speed trans" sensor from Rock auto (pictured below)

However this transmission, as well as the 98 and 03 trans from the first post, have the "5 speed trans" DTR as in this picture:

Is this the swap you are referring to? Or, even though they all look like the second DTR picture, they might have some differences internally?

I think they upgraded the 4.0 trans to 5 forward speeds earlier (97 maybe?) than the 3.0 I wonder if they switched all the DTRs at that point. Or maybe it just depends on what parts they had around?

Thanks again,
Cahman

 

[cahman]

Just wanted to close the loop:

Swapped in the 5R44E. Left the ISS and OSS unhooked. I used the DTR that came on the 5R44E. On a 20 minute test drive: shifts were good, every range on the selector functioned like it should, no OD shift issues. YMMV

Additional Notes:
This is a pain to swap from the ground.
You don't have to take out the exhaust crosspipe, but I bet it is a lot easier if you do!
Expect to cut off and replace any exhaust bolts that need removed.
Expect at least some of the captive nuts on the TX crossmember to break. Cut/Grind them off and replace the clips.

--Cahman

 

[RonD]

Thanks for the update and info on DTR sensor