My 2005 V6 Escape XLT with 140k has been slipping for some time, and needs a brake job(which I can do). I just bought a late model vehicle and swapped the registration, but my Escape is in pretty good shape and well maintained. I am debating getting rid of it or rehabbing it for a backup vehicle. It isn't worth a whole lot on the current market with it's tranny (and brake) issues. Any options as far as getting a used tranny installed? I am going to stop in to a few local tranny shops and see what they think. The junkyards have to be filled with these things, Ford made so many. All input/advice appreciated!

 

The junk yards are going to be filled with CD4e transmissions that slip, have valve body wear (causes TC damage and blown out drums), and broken OD bands. Feeling lucky?

 

Good point. It seems getting a rebuilt one installed would cost more than the vehicle would be worth after the install. I guess I'll have to punt on this one..

 

Yeah, I hear you on the repair cost vs actual value. I'm nursing along a balky CD4E in my granddaughter's car, an 01 Cougar. I could do a minimal repair of this one for another $300 or so, but I just installed an auxiliary cooler and taught her how to drive it mostly in 3rd to keep the transmission fluid cooler. This one probably has a cracked FDC drum that, when the fluid reaches 175F, starts to slip in 4th gear as the fluid thins out and the direct clutch looses its clamping force. Already rebuilt the valve body to fix the slipping torque converter. It's a shame, though, the thing only has 135K on it and they just bought it in November.

 

I see remanufactured ones for sale online for $1200 - what would the labor be roughly for a V6 Escape?

 

That's going to depend on your local shops. You'd have to call around. It would probably be a bit more if you have AWD.