Whats the difference between 5R55E in a 2wd and 4wd?

[Blinger]

I have 1 each of these. The 4wd one is done. Can I use the 2wd one for parts? Can anyone tell me what the physical difference is between them.

 

[RonD]

Welcome to TRS

The main/tail shafts are different, so requires a full tear down to convert 2WD to 4x4, or visa versa, to change shafts
I think all 4x4s had a deeper pan, for better cooling/more fluid

Internally 5R55E parts, except for shafts, are the same, 2WD or 4x4

There were changes over the years, these changes would be year specific
1997-2000, were the same overall
2001-2011, saw a new ISS sensor added, needed by 2001-2011 PCMs(computers), so you could put a 2001-2011 5R into a 1997-2000 4.0l Ranger, computer just ignores the ISS

But you can't put a 1997-2000 5R into a 2001 and up because computer needs the ISS signal, which is missing and can't be added to older version

55E means it has a bell housing the fits a 4.0l V6 engine, OHV or SOHC

44E means it has a 4cyl(2.3l Duratec, 5R) or 3.0l Vulcan V6 bell housing

 

[Blinger]

Thanks for the info. I f I have to gut it to change the shaft I might as well rebuild the 4wd one.

 

[RonD]

Exactly the right answer

Not cost effective to change out main shaft, just rebuild original