Hey folks. I normally post in the Aerostar forum but I may be coming into a '92 or '97 Explorer. The '92 was advertised as having a bad transmission. The '97 has a bad timing chain.
Is there a better transmission to put behind the '92 4.0? I think it's a 2WD. I won't know until tonight, the lady just won't answer that on the email. I thought I read somewhere about adapters or other compatible transmissions. I need to tow my sailboat, the Aerostar handles it today, but maximum mpg would be nice.
Would I be smarter to go with the '97? I think I can get the '92 for about $400, not sure about the '97 with the bad timing chain and what other problems might be lurking behind that. I'm not intimidated by mechanical work, just want the best bang for the buck.
Thanks.

 

The 92 has an A4LD, which is a weak link... The 97 with the bad chain needs to be pulled as there are 3 chains, one at the back. If you dont get them before they break it will require 2 rebuilt heads....

 

You can do what I did. The A4LD is not the strongest trans, but it can be upgraded to make it very tough. And in its upgraded form, it is stronger than the 5 speed manual. This is important in the 4.0L, because even in its stock form it has enough torque to damage the 5 speed trans.

If you are comfortable working on a trans yourself, this wouldn't be that expensive. Here is a list of the parts you would need to beef it up I will try to group them by level. Of course all of these are in addition to simply replacing what might already be worn out

Level 1
Use OE equivalent bands and clutches
Heavy Duty torque converter $199
A4LD wake up kit $309
B&M 7268 Plate Cooler $50

Level 2
Same as above, but also add
Carbon Fiber Bands 2@$25 $50
Deep Cast Aluminum Pan $220

There is a level 3, but that is harder to do and is only needed if you plan on upgrading the engine with forced induction. It would require even better bands and clutches, a larger cooler, and a stronger torque converter.

You can buy all these parts through
A4LD Performance Transmission and Parts from PATC, A4LD

This is basically what I have in mine. Mine was professionally installed and cost me a bit, but I have neither the time nor the facilities. If I had a good clean garage, I might consider this kind of work myself, but even at that I use the van for work, and so I needed it back on the road more quickly. But if you have a manual, and can get the trans in and out yourself, this isn't that much more than rebuilding it to stock form.

All in all, the '97's trans is gonna be tougher, but should still be upgraded. That timing chain is gonna be a bear to fix. You would probably be into that more time and money.