E4OD replacement options & Navigator TC question

broncofocused
11-01-2007, 06:39 PM
So my front pump seal blew out about 6 weeks ago, :banghead at least that's the general consensus from my mechanic friends as I haven't pulled the trans yet, but all the fluid dumped out the bellhousing. Regardless, I have the "working" E4OD from my parts truck out and I'm debating on exactly what to do. The previous owner claimed the trans was rebuilt at one point and drove fine, but because the rearend was blown out and it was only driveable as Front wheel drive, I never experienced it shifting from gear to gear. Definitely moves forward and back at 5 mph like a champ though! One of my mechanic friends can hook me up with a reputable local trans shop that would rebuild either of my trans for less than $1000 with no warranty.

I'm thinking about slapping the parts truck trans in and praying, but I'm curious if there are any easy things to look at on it or any obvious things to replace (front pump seal, etc) that could be done relatively cheaply/easily (less than $200) before slapping it in that might give me some piece of mind. If I do this, I'm thinking I'd save up and have the original trans rebuilt for the budget, non warranty price in the next few months.

I'm also thinking about upgrades, like the Navigator Torque Converter, but I haven't read about anyone on here actually running one in a Bronco. I've read some info from the Lightning guys (thanks Derrick36) and it looks like a good upgrade at a reasonable cost. Also thinking about the Factory Tech Valve Body that Derrick36 did, but that would come later, one piece at a time.

All opinions are appreciated. Need to get my FSB operational before the snow flies! :chili:

SigEpBlue
11-01-2007, 07:08 PM
:scratchhe So...you need a new transmission or a rebuild just because you blew the front pump seal? I would pull it out, inspect to see what failed, and go from there.

I wouldn't bother with another torque converter. Lightning guys use higher stall converters because they have the parts that generate a slightly higher-RPM peak torque than a Bronco/F-series setup. The factory one isn't bad, but be sure you get a new stator shaft seal from the dealership parts counter before you reinstall it. Otherwise, if it leaks, your torque converter clutch WILL burn, and generate enough heat to make the transmission fail.

DcSkater602
11-02-2007, 01:31 AM
heres what ive gathered... the navi converter is better than our stockers... thats why the lightning guys run them and many do... they are stock style but less susceptible to heat and the ford truck ones are prone to falling apart quickly... the navi ones are supposivley great...
im putting one in my truck one day...

as far as upgrades... updat the solenoid pack if its not a 95... hardened input shaft and steel 6 pinion OD is a good upgrade... depends on if you ever plan on making serious HP in the future outta that 5.8
biggest thing ive been told is upgrade the front pump for better TC engagement... call performance e4od shops through the web they can recommend good parts...

i think theres a fix out for the delayed reverse bang too

dc