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I have two IDI diesels with C-6 trans, I am beginning to rebuild and repair one at a time, but am still finding new information. I have been looking online at trans builders, offering kits and rebuilt C-6 for under $1000 outright, with larger powerbands, heavier pumps, upgraded clutch discs, etc. Is any of this going to make this trans more reliable or durable than a stock rebuild? I use both as construction trucks, with some heavy towing (up to 20,000#) nearly always over 5000# onboard, and about 1/2 highway miles. The companies in question are offering diesel models, but nearly all are directed at racing and offroad use. I suppose any upgrade would help, but enough for the extra expense? Don't mind spending for reliable upgrades, if it extends life or performance, but could use money for other upgrades, (turbo?). I figure to at least rebuild the trans, while I have it out, just need advice if money here is well spent. I know some of you are really pushing your rigs, I respect your opinions. Thanks
The C6 is already the toughest automatic Ford ever designed. Internal upgrades certainly can't hurt, but whether they are worth the investment is another question.
Do you already have an auxiliary cooler installed? Installing a second heavy duty cooler in series with the existing radiator cooler would be the first upgrade I would do for heavy towing. The C6 is near bulletproof if you keep the temps down. Heat is the #1 killer of automatics...
The C6 is already the toughest automatic Ford ever designed. Internal upgrades certainly can't hurt, but whether they are worth the investment is another question.
Do you already have an auxiliary cooler installed? Installing a second heavy duty cooler in series with the existing radiator cooler would be the first upgrade I would do for heavy towing. The C6 is near bulletproof if you keep the temps down. Heat is the #1 killer of automatics...
Just my 2 cents....
Diddo. A stock build is enough to give years of reliable service out of a C6, anything on top of that will only make it better.
Sometimes the performance C6s will have planetaries from the newer E4OD trans to give a wider first and second ratio, which can come in handy if you do a lot of towing. Just some more food for thought.
Forgot to mention, if your go with an aftermarket build, then make sure to get one to match the type of work you do with your truck(s).
Often the high performance trannies have a shift that is so stiff that it will cause a churp of the tires on each upshift(intended for racing), you don't want this for towing. A mild build is all you should need for what you are doing.
Agressive shift kits often build a lot of line pressure to achieve those hard shifts, and that pressure adds up to lost efficiency and heat.
Bigger clutch packs on the other hand, are always a good idea because they have a more solid shift without having to bump up the pressure.