Hi guys....been a while since I posted, but here's the scoop.

1989 F250 XLT Lariat, 460 EFI, auto. Truck has 48K original miles....yes, that's right, 48K miles. I've owned it since 2003, use it essentially just to pull my fifth wheel. Truck is extremely reliable, and we regularly take it on trips to the mountains....about 300 miles round trip.

About a year ago, it developed a shudder when the torque converter locks up. It was minor, so I never really worried about it. Well....it's not minor anymore. Coming back from Timberon, NM this weekend, it shifted 1-2 just fine, 2-3 just fine....until the converter went to lock. It's no longer a shudder....it's a hard shake. The area we're going is 9000' up and lots of steep pulling....not good.

The transmission shifts perfectly. There is no slippage, and the fluid is clear and no burnt odor. I only tow in 3rd gear....I never use O/D towing...but the previous owner (who bought the truck new) may have. I'm 98% sure the torque converter is bad.

Any suggestions on what to buy and where to buy? I want a stock equivalent unit or thereabouts....I average about 1500-2000 miles with the truck, but am willing to spend more if need be. The first one went 22 years and 48K miles....if the next one will do that, it may outlive me. The fiver isn't huge....23' and about 6000 lbs loaded.

I do all of my own wrenching....I have a transmission jack and a couple of helpers.....just need to know from those who've done it what to look for and where to buy.

TIA.

 

I don't know how much you're looking to spend but Circle D builds multi disk lock-up converters for E4OD's that are very stout pieces.

 

Thanks Blurry....Found them online. They are spendy, but given that I tow heavy loads in very steep mountainous terrain, it might be worth the cash outlay.

 

4L60E 700R4 4L80E 4R100 E4OD 2004R C6 TH350 TH400 Transmission Parts: FORD E4OD 4R100 HEAVY DUTY BILLET TORQUE CONVERTER



They also have a Ebay Store with the same TC listed now for $329.00 with Free Shipping!!! I have bought 3 TC's from them and have been very happy with them!!

 

Thanks gashog....I guess this is a dumb question, but the transmission in this truck is a 4R100, (non electronic) correct?

 

If you have an overdrive button then your trans is an E4OD which is electronic. The 4R100 was not available until 1998 model year.
Have you checked for trouble codes yet?

 

No its an E4OD , But the TC's are the same as a 4R100 is almost identical to a E4OD just built way better!!!

 

Yes, have an overdrive button on dash. No codes whatsoever.