Gearstar - 4R70W Performance Transmission Specs, Updates, and More
The 4R70W performance transmission, an updated model from the AODE, was released in 1993 by Lincoln Mark VIII. The significant improvement of the 4R70W over its predecessor was the lowered ratios for its 2 lowest gears. The lowered ratios allowed drivers to get much more powerful – and smoother – acceleration even from zero. The strength of the gearset was also significantly improved, thanks to the use of more robust construction and materials.
And trucks mounted with the 4R70W performance transmission found it incredibly easier to deal with the extra power from 5.4-liter V8 engines. Both V4 and V6 engines lacked this extra power.
However, the 4R70W specs underwent another modification in 1998 in which the one-way roller clutch was replaced with a mechanical diode. This gave the transmission a longer working life as well as extra holding capacity.
Due to the 4R70W transmission versatility and remarkable power, it works remarkably well in a wide variety of commercial automobiles. The Town Car, the Crown Victoria for law enforcement, the Ford Thunderbird, as well as the Lincoln Mark VIII, its original home, use the 4R70W performance transmission maximally.
Even the F series of automotive vehicles – which are part of the latest Ford products – use the 4R70W transmission. The gear mechanism is also used expressly in heavy vehicles like the Mercury Cougar, the Mustang, and the Explorer.
All transmissions come with model numbers that summarily indicate their specifications, and the 4R70W is no different. For instance, the figure ‘70’ in this transmission model has 2 unique translations:
Let us look at each assumption.
Regarding the first assumption, when you look at the specifications that come with the 2003 Expedition, you will discover that the maximum output is not more than 506lbs/ft. of torque. This is quite different from the 700lbs/ft. assumed, even at very peak conditions.
But then, experts may propose the fact that when you take the 506lbs/ft. used by the Expedition, it can be converted to about 686Nm, which can then be rounded to 700. End of story.
However, the rest of the transmission's model number, '4', refers to the '4-gear transmission,' excluding reverse. The ‘R’ represents ‘rear-wheel drive’ while the ‘W’ implies that the transmission has much wider gear ratios when compared to its predecessor, the AODE.
The transmission's primary job is to transmit power obtained from the engine to the wheels through an overly complicated assembly of pistons, valves, and even gears. If left unattended, minor problems can accumulate over time and eventually turn into a severe problem that you may have to replace the transmission.
So, what are the symptoms of a transmission problem, you ask? Here are some of them to watch out for:
Slipped shifting is a problem that occurs in both manuals and automatic transmission. If you notice that when driving your truck in third gear, it seems to downshift or upshift abruptly without any input, you may be looking at a slipped shifting gear problem.
If you also hear loud noises when changing gears, something is wrong with the transmission. Shifting should not sound rougher or be accompanied by loud, grating noises. Another sign of slipped shifting you should watch out for is when your vehicle does not accelerate as smoothly as it should.
If you notice any fluid leaks from your vehicle, then something may be wrong with your transmission. Fluid leaks could be attributed to cracks somewhere in the gear mechanism, or a valve may have failed to close correctly or all the way.
A transmission component is a solid and closed object, so when you see such a vital component leaking fluid, it only means something has gone haywire in the transmission. It is also easy to recognize transmission fluid: it is dark red, off brown.
This is another widespread symptom of a bad transmission. The time you shift your vehicle's gearstick to the period the transmission shifts the gears should be negligible. This means that the action is expected to be smooth and almost instantaneous.
But if you experience any delay when shifting the gearstick or a dramatic delay in your car’s motion, set your sights on the nearest mechanic in your locality and take your vehicle for a checkup.
Another way you can know that your transmission has issues is when you see the transmission light come on right on your dashboard. If the light switches on and refuses to go off, it will generate an error code that can be used to diagnose any issues.
Simple problems can easily be fixed by a certified mechanic and are usually inexpensive. But the more complex issues can be expensive and may require replacing the old transmission with a brand-new one.
No matter how tough some vehicle components are, overuse can severely damage them over time. This is the same case with the 4R70W transmission.
The 4R70W transmission is a vulnerable vehicular component that must never be joked with, especially since it will set you back thousand dollars to replace when damaged.
However, you can significantly extend the life of the gearset by avoiding some critical errors that many drivers make these days. Do not do the following, or you may have to fish out your debit or credit card for a new 4R70W transmission:
If you adhere to these simple rules, your transmission will last longer, and you will have fewer issues with it over time.
The 4R70W performance transmission is a tough – but delicate – vehicle component that is not to be joked with. It is much more powerful than its predecessor, the AODE and its stronger gearset perfectly handles that extra power that V8 engines exude.
The 4R70W transmission's extra holding capacity and its longer working life make it the #1 choice when it comes to gear mechanisms.
If you notice any problems with your transmission, get your vehicle to the nearest certified mechanic workshop to have it checked out immediately. Doing so will help you avoid the more expensive option, which may be a total replacement with a new one.
And trucks mounted with the 4R70W performance transmission found it incredibly easier to deal with the extra power from 5.4-liter V8 engines. Both V4 and V6 engines lacked this extra power.
However, the 4R70W specs underwent another modification in 1998 in which the one-way roller clutch was replaced with a mechanical diode. This gave the transmission a longer working life as well as extra holding capacity.
Due to the 4R70W transmission versatility and remarkable power, it works remarkably well in a wide variety of commercial automobiles. The Town Car, the Crown Victoria for law enforcement, the Ford Thunderbird, as well as the Lincoln Mark VIII, its original home, use the 4R70W performance transmission maximally.
Even the F series of automotive vehicles – which are part of the latest Ford products – use the 4R70W transmission. The gear mechanism is also used expressly in heavy vehicles like the Mercury Cougar, the Mustang, and the Explorer.
Why 4R70W ?
All transmissions come with model numbers that summarily indicate their specifications, and the 4R70W is no different. For instance, the figure ‘70’ in this transmission model has 2 unique translations:
- Some individuals believe that figure indicates the transmission system's ability to generate up to 700lbs/ft. Of torque. But then, this is probably not the case. 2
- Another school of thought states that the figure '70' refers to nothing else but newton-meters. This assumes a much more elastic performance as well as a converter multiplication factor of 10 at low gears.
Let us look at each assumption.
Regarding the first assumption, when you look at the specifications that come with the 2003 Expedition, you will discover that the maximum output is not more than 506lbs/ft. of torque. This is quite different from the 700lbs/ft. assumed, even at very peak conditions.
But then, experts may propose the fact that when you take the 506lbs/ft. used by the Expedition, it can be converted to about 686Nm, which can then be rounded to 700. End of story.
However, the rest of the transmission's model number, '4', refers to the '4-gear transmission,' excluding reverse. The ‘R’ represents ‘rear-wheel drive’ while the ‘W’ implies that the transmission has much wider gear ratios when compared to its predecessor, the AODE.
What are the Symptoms of a Transmission Problem?
The transmission's primary job is to transmit power obtained from the engine to the wheels through an overly complicated assembly of pistons, valves, and even gears. If left unattended, minor problems can accumulate over time and eventually turn into a severe problem that you may have to replace the transmission.
So, what are the symptoms of a transmission problem, you ask? Here are some of them to watch out for:
Slipped Shifting
Slipped shifting is a problem that occurs in both manuals and automatic transmission. If you notice that when driving your truck in third gear, it seems to downshift or upshift abruptly without any input, you may be looking at a slipped shifting gear problem.
If you also hear loud noises when changing gears, something is wrong with the transmission. Shifting should not sound rougher or be accompanied by loud, grating noises. Another sign of slipped shifting you should watch out for is when your vehicle does not accelerate as smoothly as it should.
Leakage of fluid
If you notice any fluid leaks from your vehicle, then something may be wrong with your transmission. Fluid leaks could be attributed to cracks somewhere in the gear mechanism, or a valve may have failed to close correctly or all the way.
A transmission component is a solid and closed object, so when you see such a vital component leaking fluid, it only means something has gone haywire in the transmission. It is also easy to recognize transmission fluid: it is dark red, off brown.
Delayed Engagement
This is another widespread symptom of a bad transmission. The time you shift your vehicle's gearstick to the period the transmission shifts the gears should be negligible. This means that the action is expected to be smooth and almost instantaneous.
But if you experience any delay when shifting the gearstick or a dramatic delay in your car’s motion, set your sights on the nearest mechanic in your locality and take your vehicle for a checkup.
Another way you can know that your transmission has issues is when you see the transmission light come on right on your dashboard. If the light switches on and refuses to go off, it will generate an error code that can be used to diagnose any issues.
Simple problems can easily be fixed by a certified mechanic and are usually inexpensive. But the more complex issues can be expensive and may require replacing the old transmission with a brand-new one.
How to Extend the Lifespan of the 4R70W Transmission
No matter how tough some vehicle components are, overuse can severely damage them over time. This is the same case with the 4R70W transmission.
The 4R70W transmission is a vulnerable vehicular component that must never be joked with, especially since it will set you back thousand dollars to replace when damaged.
However, you can significantly extend the life of the gearset by avoiding some critical errors that many drivers make these days. Do not do the following, or you may have to fish out your debit or credit card for a new 4R70W transmission:
- Do Not Exceed Payload Capacity
- Remember to Change the Fluid
- Be Aware Not to Exceed Tow Limits
- Avoid Excessive Acceleration
If you adhere to these simple rules, your transmission will last longer, and you will have fewer issues with it over time.
Conclusion
The 4R70W performance transmission is a tough – but delicate – vehicle component that is not to be joked with. It is much more powerful than its predecessor, the AODE and its stronger gearset perfectly handles that extra power that V8 engines exude.
The 4R70W transmission's extra holding capacity and its longer working life make it the #1 choice when it comes to gear mechanisms.
If you notice any problems with your transmission, get your vehicle to the nearest certified mechanic workshop to have it checked out immediately. Doing so will help you avoid the more expensive option, which may be a total replacement with a new one.