Remanufactured 4R70W / AODE Transmission: Specs & Updates

Our company collects refurbished 4R70W transmissions and sells them directly from the factory to your door or mechanic shop of your choice. We offer wholesale prices to give our customers an unbeatable discount. We also provide a transferable warranty that covers labor and part replacement for three years with no limitations inside the United States. For a quote on a 4R75E or 4R70W, click Get a Free Estimate.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?

• Vehicle Applications – Makes & Models
• Differences Between 4R70W & AODE Transmission
• 4 Habits to Avoid to Extend the Life of the 4R70W
• Remanufactured 4R70W Transmission Updates and Upgrades
• Symptoms of a Transmission Problem

Vehicle Applications – Makes & Models

• 1993–1998 Lincoln Mark VIII
• 1993–2003 Ford F-Series
• 1994–1997 Ford Thunderbird
• 1995–2004 Ford Crown Victoria
• 1996–2001 Ford Explorer
• 1993–2004 Lincoln Town Car
• 1994–1997 Mercury Cougar
• 1995–2004 Mercury Grand Marquis
• 2003 Mercury Marauder
• 1997–2004 Ford Expedition
• 1997–2001 Mercury Mountaineer
• 1996–2004 Ford Mustang

In 1993, the Lincoln Mark VIII was released with the 4R70W transmission, which was an updated model from the AODE. The main improvement made to the 4R70W was lowered ratios for the two lowest gears, allowing drivers to get smoother and more powerful acceleration from a standstill. It also used more robust materials and construction to improve the strength of the gears.

Trucks that use a 5.4-liter V8 engine need this stronger gearset to deal with the extra power that a V6 or V4 doesn’t have. An additional modification was made in 1998. A mechanical diode replaced the one-way roller clutch. This allowed for extra holding capacity and longer working life for the transmission.

Because of the 4R70W’s power and versatility, it works well in a variety of commercial vehicles. Some of these include its original home the Lincoln Mark VIII, the Ford Thunderbird, the Crown Victoria for law enforcement, and the Town Car. You can also see it used in heavier vehicles like the Mustang, Explorer, and the Mercury Cougar. The latest line of Ford’s products, the F series of trucks, also uses the 4R70W.

Model Number Explanation

Every transmission’s model number indicates what its specs are. The “70” in this model has two interpretations: some people think that the 70 is meant to indicate the transmission’s ability to generate 700 pound-feet of torque, but this likely isn’t the case.

By looking at the specs for the 2003 Expedition as an example, you can see that it has a maximum output of 506 pound-feet of torque, far less than 700 even at peak operating condition.

It could be argued that the “70” refers to newton-meters, assuming a converter multiplication factor of 10 at lower gears and more elastic performance. By taking the figure of 506 pound-feet used by the Expedition converts to approximately 686 newton-meters, which could be rounded to 700.

As for the rest of the model number, the “4” refers to a 4-gear transmission (not including reverse); the “R” means it is a rear-wheel drive, and the “W” means it has wider gear ratios, at least compared to the AODE.

4 Habits to Avoid to Extend the Life of the 4R70W

Even though a pickup truck is a durable piece of machinery designed for heavy use, it is possible to push it beyond its limits if you aren’t careful about caring for it. Overuse does damage to the truck’s components over time.

The transmission is especially vulnerable, and it can cost thousands of dollars to replace. Drivers make four critical errors that drastically shorten the working lifespan of the 4R70W transmission. Here’s what you can do to avoid them.

Exceeding Tow Limits

Pay attention to your truck’s maximum limit for towing cargo as written in the manual. If you go over this limit, it can damage the transmission in several ways. Clutches and bands, when placed under higher than their rated stress, can snap and destroy the transmission.

However, heat buildup is the biggest problem because it expands and weakens the metal moving parts. Gears are finely tuned to a set size, and thermal expansion ruins their performance. A custom cooler for your transmission can mitigate this problem, but you should just not overwork your truck if possible.

Exceeding Payload Capacity

Don’t exceed the truck’s payload capacity. By doing this, you risk causing damage to your transmission, not to mention your chassis, frame, bed, and tires. Remember, towing capacity and payload are not the same measurements. The payload is how much the truck can carry while towing is how much it can pull. Conflating these two terms can cause you to break your truck.

Not Changing Fluid

Change transmission fluid regularly. For an automatic, you should usually do this every 60,000 miles. The problem with old transmission fluid is that it heats up and cools down, breaking down and losing its lubricating properties.

Check your fluid levels before long trips or at regular intervals. Ask a mechanic or consult your truck’s owner’s manual for the location of the transmission dipstick. To check fluid levels, set the vehicle in park and run the engine.

Remove the dipstick, wipe it on a clean surface, and insert it in the opening. Then compare the fluid markings on the dipstick to the lines indicating accepted levels.

Excessive Acceleration

Ease your foot off the gas when coming under load and avoid peeling out. You don’t want to be straining to make it up an incline or trying to set a 0-to-60 record. Not only does lead foot syndrome harm the engine, but it also puts extra stress on the transmission. This habit can lead to overheating or in the worst-case scenario, stripped gears.

4R70 Transmission DTC’s

4R70 Transmission Technical Service Bulletins | TSBs

TCC Application in 2nd Gear – 4R70 / 4R70W Transmission
2005 – 2006 Ford Crown Victoria – 2005 – 2006 Ford E-150 – 2005 – 2006 Ford E-250 – 2005 – 2006 Ford Expedition – 2005 – 2006 Ford F-150 – 2005 – 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis – 2005 – 2006 Lincoln Town Car – 2005 – 2006 Lincoln Mark LT
Problem – A lack of power after the 1-2 shift can be caused by an un-commanded torque converter clutch application / TCC apply. The P0742 and/or P1742 DTCs may also be stored.
Solution – the #7 check ball inside of the valve body may have worn down to an incorrect size, allowing the torque converter clutch to apply after the 1-2 shift. Replacement of this check ball may solve the problem.

TSB 99-1-3 – Delayed or no 2-3 upshift
1997 – 1999 Ford Crown Victoria – 1997 – 1999 Ford Mustang – 1997 – 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis – 1997 – 1999 Lincoln Town Car – 1997 – 1998 Lincoln Mark VIII – 1997 – 1999 Ford Econoline – 1997 – 1999 Ford Expedition – 1997 – 1999 Ford Explorer – 1997 – 1999 Ford F-150 – 1997 – 1999 Ford F-250 – 1997 – 1999 Mercury Mountaineer
Problem – Primarily when the vehicle is cold, a delayed or failed 2-3 upshift may occur. A P0782 DTC may also be present.
Solution – Problem is caused by an internal leak from the 4R70 2-3 accumulator. To cure the condition, a new 2-3 accumulator with an updated piston design will need to be installed.

TSB 99-19-7 – Multiple transmission diagnostic trouble codes
1999 Ford Crown Victoria – 1999 Ford Mustang – 1999 Ford E-Series – 1999 Ford Expedition – 1999 Ford Explorer – 1999 Ford F150 – 1999 Ford F250 – 1999 Lincoln Town Car – 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis – 1999 Mercury Mountaineer
Problem – Vehicles equipped with the 4R70W transmission may experience a number of transmission diagnostic trouble codes, including; P0741, P0750, P0755 and P1746. This can be caused by the solenoid interconnect molded lead frame not being fully seated, or the bulkhead the interconnect clips not being fully seated (i.e. the solenoid plugs are not connected properly).
Solution – Install revised solenoid interconnect and/or bulkhead interconnect

Symptoms of a Transmission Problem

Your truck’s transmission is responsible for taking power from the engine and transferring it to the wheels via a complicated assembly of gears, valves, and pistons. Even small problems with it can accumulate and compound into something that requires complete replacement of the transmission.

Slipped shifting, which can occur in both automatics and manuals. If the truck is driving in third gear and seems to upshift or downshift abruptly without input, slipped shifting gears may be the cause.

Shifting may also be rougher or be accompanied by loud sounds. There should be no sound when changing gears. It is also possible that the vehicle does not accelerate smoothly.

Another symptom of a bad transmission is delayed engagement. From the time you shift the gearstick to the time the transmission shifts gears should be practically instantaneous. If you experience a delay of in the vehicle’s motion, take it to a mechanic.

A fluid leak is a telltale sign that something is awry with your transmission: a valve may not have closed all the way, or a cover may have cracked. If you see transmission fluid leaking from your vehicle, it is a major issue because it is a solid, closed object. Also look at the color of the fluid. Transmission fluid is a dark red verging on brown.

If a problem develops, you’re most likely to notice the transmission light come on at your dashboard. If it comes on and stays on, it generates an error code used to diagnose problems. If it turns out to be simple, it can be fixed. More expensive problems warrant a complete replacement.

Remanufactured 4R70W Transmission Updates and Upgrades

• We add two new clutch packs; a six-plate direct and four-plate intermediate for added performance on all standardized models.

• Stronger solenoids and solenoid clips are installed for better electrical conductivity in modern transmissions.

• Upgraded boost valve kit and pressure regulator valve. Improved plunger and bypass clutch sleeve to make shifting more reliable by eliminating shudder and delayed action.

• Includes improved snap ring for spiral lock and intermediate clutch stake retainer. This can prevent transmission failure.

• Accumulator pistons for 1-2 and 2-3 gear changes provide a smoother shifting experience and prolong the life of your clutch.

• Modify the servo by adding a fresh servo pin sleeve, complete with tooling.

• Eliminate leaks and increased fluid flow by installing a new pump, complete with line bore bushings.

• New torque converter installed and tested for balance, as well as leaks or other defects. The upgrades surpass the original equipment specifications and reduce the likelihood of bushing wear, leaks or vibration.

• Installation of a new 3-4 capacity valve sleeve and a thick plate coated with zinc alloy, eliminating cracks and leaks from stress from the accumulator piston spring.

• Reinforced valves and valve bodies, as well as a direct clutch pack with eight plates. These are available for purchase packages involving heavy-duty performance, such as police vehicles and towing vehicles.

• Recalibration and system correction kit included for improved pressure control.

• Upon completing repairs, our repaired transmissions are tested in working and idle conditions and put through a complete road simulation via a computer program.

What’s Included

How to Buy a Remanufactured 4R75E / 4R70W Transmission

1) Buying Locally

When you go to your local repair shop, they’ll order a remanufactured transmission, then mark up the price. So at the end of the day, you’ll be paying 15% to 30% more than the actual cost of the unit.

2) Buying Online

Buying a reman transmission through a company like Street Smart Transmission will save you a considerable amount of money because you pay the wholesale price (avoiding a repair shop’s 15% to 30% markup), they’ll ship the unit to the shop of your choice free of charge, and returning your old transmission is free as well. Then all you have to pay for is the labor to install the unit (usually $400 to $800), and you’re on your way.

How Does it Work?

To order a remanufactured transmission from a company like Street Smart Transmission, all you need to do is provide your vehicle’s VIN number, the mileage, and the address of the repair shop that you want it shipped to.

Financing

Replacing a transmission can be expensive, so Street Smart Transmission offers financing through PayPal. Depending on your credit, you’ll be able to order a new transmission, get back on the road, then pay for it over time. You may have to pay labor charges for the installation up front, but you won’t have to shell out for the transmission all at once.

Shipping Charge/Location

When it comes to shipping, a transmission is quite heavy. So you’re going to pay quite a bit of money, unless the reman transmission company offers free shipping. Street Smart offers free shipping to a business address, which is usually the repair shop that you’ve chosen to install the unit.

What is a Core Charge (Core Deposit)?

Every remanufactured transmission originally came from somebody else’s car. Therefore, they need your broken transmission in order to refurbish it for another customer.

Your old/damaged transmission is called a “core”, and many companies will collect a core charge (usually $500 to $1500), which will be refunded once they receive your old transmission. However, if the transmission case, or other key components are damaged beyond repair, you may not get all of your core charge back. Make sure to ask for the core return policy, so you’ll know what to expect.

Our Recommendation

We recommend Street Smart Transmission. We have found Street Smart to be of the highest quality. Their transmissions carry a 3 year / unlimited miles warranty that covers both parts and labor. Their warranty is nationwide and attached to the VIN so it is transferable with ownership if you decide to sell the vehicle. It also covers both parts and labor for the installation of the replacement transmission.

Finding a Shop to Install the Remanufactured Transmission

If your transmission has failed, you’re going to need a skilled mechanic to replace it. You can find a shop using our shop locator map.

For warranty purposes, you need to find a reliable repair shop. That way, if the replacement transmission doesn’t work properly, the warranty will cover it.

Click Get a Free Estimate for an unbeatable price on a replacement remanufactured transmission.

Need a replacement transmission? Get an estimate for replacement transmissions and local installation. Look up your transmission model by vehicle make and model.

What Transmission Do I Have?