Are you having problems with your Ford F150 4R70W transmission? Are you trying to determine if the 4R70W replacement transmission should be rebuilt or remanufactured? Let's discuss the difference between remanufactured and rebuilt transmissions.
A "remanufactured" or "reman" transmission has had work done on all the original parts, bringing the quality level up to that of a new transmission. As it is much more thorough, it is considered a "new" transmission.
A "rebuilt" transmission has the problem parts only, either fixed or replaced. The automatic overdrive, or AOD-E, is a 4-speed automatic transmission, using the fourth gear as overdrive. It was introduced in 1980 as Ford's first four-speed automatic overdrive transmission.
Then in 1993, a revised version of the AOD-E was released in the Lincoln Mark VIII, becoming the 4R70W, indicating it has four gears, along with rear-wheel drive and a wider gear ratio. This was an improvement over the AOD-E. Additional improvements were made, giving the transmission better mechanical operation, better acceleration resulting in better passing ability and slightly lower fuel consumption, and increased gearset strength.
With the fourth gear ratio up to 0.70:1 from 0.67:1, fuel economy is slightly increased and downshifting slightly decreased, for less wear on the transmission. In 1998, the intermediate one-way roller clutch was replaced because of durability issues. This change provided extended reliability.
The 4R70W was installed in the following vehicles:
https://reman-transmission.com/transmissions/ford
Let's discuss the reliability of both transmissions. Because rebuilt transmissions are repaired with used components, and while they perform as you would expect, the parts are not new ones.
The remanufactured components are re-created with new parts, which essentially makes them like new. A reman transmission is installed in a verified and authorized repair shop, while rebuilt transmissions can be from any repair shop, verified or unverified. A remanufactured transmission will go through a testing process prior to leaving the repair shop.
So while both rebuilt and remanufactured transmissions might be compatible with your vehicle, a remanufactured product is more reliable and higher in quality. Also, a remanufactured transmission usually comes with a factory warranty that can span three years. The warranty period can be longer and is not limited to mileage. The warranty for a rebuilt transmission is quite basic, but the repair costs are covered for up to 12 months. But if the transmission fails, you may not be able to have it repaired in the shop of your choice.
If you are experiencing Ford 4R70W transmission issues, look for remanufactured transmissions "for sale near me." The cost will be significantly lower than new, and you will find your vehicle is now more reliable. With the installation of a remanufactured transmission, as opposed to a rebuilt transmission, it will increase your vehicle's trade-in value should you decide to make a change. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_AOD_transmission