1990 with rebuilt 351W and rebuilt E40D:

Looking for some experienced advice on ensuring I don't grenade another transmission (the original was replaced with a rebuilt one).

1st: Long time ago I fixed a leak in the cooler return line with a compression fitting. It's starting to leak again so I'm looking for some advice there...do I replace the whole line with flex line or just try and just replace a foot long section? Ideally, I'd replace with OEM hard line, but can't seem to find it. Anybody know the line and fitting sizes off hand?

2nd: Figured I'd add a shift kit while I'm going to be draining the fluid anyway. I've heard good things about the TransGo kit and the Factory Tech Valve Body.

3rd: Thoughts on adding an external cooler and/or filter.

Uses: The Bronco isn't my daily driver anymore, but I do frequently use it to haul heavy things or tow (try to stay less than 4,000 lbs). I will also be doing more power upgrades as $ allows, including upgrading gearing to 4.xx (haven't decided yet) and thus upgrading to 33-35" tires next time rubber is needed.

Ultimately, I want to protect the tranny before putting money into any other upgrades as it was by far the most expensive repair I've ever had to do to this bronco.

 

bump

 

Update for posterity:

1: In researching the external filter/cooler option, I saw a lot of rubber hose and hose clamps. I ended up cutting and flaring the ends of the hard line and using 3/8" rubber hose to bridge the gap. So far, no leaks...I don't think the pressure going through the cooler is very high.

2: I bought a new valve body from Paul over on FSB forums. He built it for me given my usage and power upgrades (don't know exactly what is different from stock, but I assume he just chooses a valve spring based on what you want). The install was simple (minus draining the trans fluid...I added a drain plug for the next time), and I am very happy with the results. I can notice the quicker, firmer shifts, but my girlfriend doesn't complain about it so by that scale it wasn't too extreme.

3. I replaced the internal fuel filter with a new one, but the old was clean enough that I didn't feel an external filter was required. I think I'm going to install a fluid temp gauge before deciding whether the external cooler is needed.

 

i would for sure have an external cooler for that tranny. check out the many writeups at fsb and get some info from Paul if necessary. going with his valvebody vs the shiftkit was a smart choice. I have the transgo kit and like it but requires some tweeking to get right.