I have low mileage 94 f-150 4x4 with an auto transmission. The door sticker shows code U which means 4R70W. I intend to use this truck for some mild off roading and pulling a travel trailer. Not having had a lot of experience with ford automatics I'm worried about how much rough use and or abuse it will take.
Should I not worry or get rid of it and get truck with a standard transmission.

 

If your worried about the toughness and want to keep the automatic, throw a shift kit in it.

Ive only had one truck with that transmission in it, and my personal experience was good. I didnt put it through the same abuse as you plan to, but I did use it.

 

Keep it cool (external cooler) and keep the fluid and filter changed, you'll be fine...

 

I'm happy with my 4r70w I've had multiple heavy loaded car trailers behind it and its holding up good (knock on wood) 170500 and counting. Plus if it goes ill swap in a 2002 4r70w all you gotta do is repin the conector plus it has internal upgrades compaired to ours.

 

You'll be fine so long as you operate the truck within the stated capacity for towing. You can probably even exceed them a bit occasionally so long as you don't do anything crazy. If you currently have no issues with the tranny then your stated usage should not be a problem.

 

I wouldn't worry about it at all, just keep it cool like any other automatic. I've pulled way over the rated capacity many times and never any problems. The 4R70W is also in Crown Vics and if cops and taxi drivers can't destroy them ...........