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Description
About the 5R55E Transmission
You have come to the right place if you’re hunting for a reliable and affordable transmission solution for your Ford Explorer, Ford Ranger, Mercury Mountaineer, or Ford Aerostar from the 1997 to 2001 model year range. Our selection of used 5R55E transmissions for sale offers the perfect combination of quality, compatibility, and value. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, we have the right 5R55E transmission for sale on our site to get your vehicle back on the road with confidence.
Understanding the 5R55E Transmission
The 5R55E transmission, introduced by Ford in 1997, is a 5-speed electronically-controlled automatic known for its performance and adaptability across various Ford SUV and small truck applications. The naming convention tells the story: 5 speeds, Rear-wheel drive (or RWD-based 4WD), 55 series casting, Electronic shift controls. With electronic adaptive shift strategy and five forward gears (including overdrive 5th at 0.71:1), it offers smooth shifts and reasonable highway fuel economy for the era. Its robust design enables it to handle moderate loads effectively, making it the workhorse transmission for Ford’s 4.0L Cologne V6-equipped trucks and SUVs from the late 1990s through 2001. This Used 5R55E Transmission for Sale here with its reliability and adaptive characteristics has solidified its reputation among Ranger, Explorer, and Mountaineer owners and mechanics alike.
Critical Disambiguation: 5R55E vs 5R55W vs 5R55S vs 5R55N
Before you order, please understand the most important point about this transmission: there are FOUR similar but DIFFERENT Ford 5-speed automatic transmissions that customers often confuse. Choosing the wrong variant will result in a transmission that physically may bolt up but will not function correctly with your vehicle’s PCM and shift solenoid configuration.
The Four Ford 5-Speed Automatic Variants:
- 5R55E (this listing): Original Electronic version, used 1997 to 2001 in:
- Ford Explorer (1997 to 2001)
- Ford Ranger (1997 to 2001)
- Mercury Mountaineer (1997 to 2001)
- Ford Aerostar (1997, final year)
- Paired with 4.0L Cologne V6 (OHV pushrod and later SOHC)
- 5R55W (Wide-ratio): Used 2002 to 2005 primarily in:
- Ford Explorer (2002 to 2005)
- Mercury Mountaineer (2002 to 2005)
- Paired with 4.0L SOHC V6
- 5R55S (Synchronous): Used 2002 to 2010 in:
- Ford Explorer Sport Trac (2002 to 2010)
- Ford Explorer Sport (2002 to 2003)
- Ford Mustang V6 (2005 to 2010) , note: this is NOT a 5R55E despite some aftermarket listings claiming so
- Mazda B4000 / B3000 (some variants)
- Lincoln Aviator (2003 to 2005, the first-gen Aviator)
- 5R55N (the rear-wheel-drive version of the AX4N front-wheel-drive design): Used 2000 to 2008 in:
- Lincoln LS (2000 to 2006)
- Jaguar S-Type (2000 to 2008)
- Jaguar XF (some early models)
If you’re not sure which variant you need, call (240) 301-0095 with your vehicle year, make, model, and engine information, and we’ll direct you to the correct listing.
Key Features of the 5R55E Transmission
- Five-Speed Configuration: Offers five forward gears (deep 3.22:1 first, 0.71:1 overdrive fifth), providing a wider range of gear ratios compared to older four-speed transmissions like the 4R55E. This enhances both performance and fuel efficiency.
- Electronic Controls: Utilizes electronic shift controls via the Ford PCM (powertrain control module) for precise and adaptive shifting, improving overall transmission performance and response.
- Durability: Known for its robust design and durable components, capable of handling the 4.0L Cologne V6 torque output reliably over extended periods. Many 5R55E units have provided 200,000 plus miles of service with proper maintenance.
- Smooth Shifting: Provides reasonably smooth shifts for the era, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
- Adaptive Shift Strategy: Incorporates adaptive shift algorithms that learn and adjust to driving habits and conditions, optimizing shift points for performance and efficiency.
- Torque Converter Lockup: Features a torque converter lockup mechanism that improves fuel efficiency by reducing slippage and maximizing power transfer during cruising speeds.
- Overdrive Capability: Includes an overdrive 5th gear (0.71:1), which lowers engine RPM at highway speeds, contributing to better fuel economy and reduced engine wear.
- Transmission Temperature Sensor: Most 5R55E variants include a transmission temperature sensor, monitoring fluid temperature to prevent overheating and maintain optimal operating conditions.
- Modular Design: Designed with modularity in mind, making maintenance and repairs more straightforward and cost-effective.
The 5R55E Transmission Vehicle Applications (Original 1997 to 2001 Production)
The 5R55E specifically (NOT the related 5R55W / 5R55S / 5R55N) was used in:
Primary Applications:
- Ford Explorer (1997 to 2001): 4.0L OHV and SOHC V6 with 4WD or 2WD
- Ford Ranger (1997 to 2001): 4.0L OHV and SOHC V6 with 4WD or 2WD (some 4-cylinder 5R55E applications also exist)
- Mercury Mountaineer (1997 to 2001): Mountaineer is the badge-engineered Explorer with 4.0L V6
- Ford Aerostar (1997): Last year of Aerostar production used the 5R55E in some configurations
Mazda Cross-Branded Applications:
- Mazda B4000 (1997 to 2001): Mazda’s badge-engineered Ranger
- Mazda B3000 (1997 to 2001): 3.0L Vulcan V6 variant (some with 5R55E, some with different transmission)
Engine Compatibility:
The 5R55E was designed specifically for the Ford Cologne V6 engine family (named for the Cologne, Germany plant where it was originally developed):
- 4.0L OHV Cologne V6 (1997 to 2000 in Ranger / Explorer): Pushrod design, approximately 160 to 205 HP
- 4.0L SOHC Cologne V6 (1997 to 2001 introduction in Explorer, later in other applications): Single overhead cam variant, up to approximately 245 HP and 280 lb-ft
- 2.3L OHC I4 (Ranger only): Some 2.3L Ranger applications used the 5R55E
Engines that are NOT Compatible with the 5R55E:
Despite some aftermarket descriptions listing them, the following Ford engines do NOT pair with the 5R55E:
- Ford Essex 3.8L V6: Different engine family, used in older Mustangs and Windstars, not paired with 5R55E
- “Ford Barra engine“: The Barra is an Australian-built 4.0L inline-6 used in the Australian Ford Falcon, NOT a US Explorer engine and not paired with 5R55E
- Ford Duratec 2.3L I4 in Mustang: The Mustang Duratec applications used different transmissions
If you see these engines listed in 5R55E descriptions, the information is incorrect.
Why Choose Our Used 5R55E Transmissions?
When searching for a Used 5R55E Transmission for Sale, quality and reliability are paramount. Here’s why our used transmissions stand out:
- Thoroughly Inspected: Each transmission undergoes a comprehensive inspection process including all 5 forward gears testing, reverse engagement, torque converter assessment, valve body inspection, and pan inspection for metal contamination.
- Variant Verified: We verify the 5R55E specifically (not the related 5R55W / 5R55S / 5R55N).
- Donor Vehicle Documentation: Each unit’s donor truck or SUV history is identified.
- Competitive Pricing: We offer affordable options without compromising on quality.
Why Choose a Used 5R55E Transmission?
Opting for a used 5R55E transmission for sale offers several advantages:
- Cost-effective solution compared to new transmissions or full rebuilds ($1,289 vs $1,800 to $2,800 for reman)
- Environmentally friendly choice, reducing waste by reusing functional units
- Opportunity to maintain the original specifications of your vehicle with the correct factory-applicable transmission
- No core charge required, so no return shipping hassles
When you’re in the market for a reliable and affordable 5R55E transmission for sale, our selection of used transmissions provides the perfect balance of quality and value. With options to fit 1997 to 2001 Ford Explorer, Ranger, Mountaineer, and Aerostar applications, competitive pricing, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’re your go-to source for 5R55E transmission needs.
Don’t let transmission issues keep you off the road. Explore our inventory of used 5R55E transmissions for sale today and get your Explorer, Ranger, or Mountaineer back in top shape!
Vehicle Compatibility
| Vehicle | Compatibility |
|---|---|
| Ford Explorer (1997 to 2001) | 4.0L OHV and SOHC V6, 2WD and 4WD |
| Ford Ranger (1997 to 2001) | 4.0L OHV and SOHC V6, 2WD and 4WD; some 2.3L I4 applications |
| Mercury Mountaineer (1997 to 2001) | Badge-engineered Explorer with 4.0L V6 |
| Ford Aerostar (1997) | Final year of production with 5R55E option |
| Mazda B4000 (1997 to 2001) | Badge-engineered Ford Ranger with 4.0L V6 |
| Compatible Engines | 4.0L OHV Cologne V6, 4.0L SOHC Cologne V6, some 2.3L I4 Ranger applications |
Condition and Inspection
- Transmission code verified (5R55E confirmed, not 5R55W / 5R55S / 5R55N)
- Donor vehicle confirmed (Explorer / Ranger / Mountaineer / Aerostar)
- Engine pairing documented (4.0L Cologne V6)
- Year of production identified
- 2WD vs 4WD configuration documented
- All 5 forward gears tested through engagement
- Reverse gear engagement verified
- Torque converter condition assessed
- Valve body inspected
- Electronic solenoid pack verified
- Output shaft 31-spline configuration confirmed
- Input shaft 23-spline verified
- Pan inspected for metal contamination
- Case integrity visual inspection
- Mileage from donor noted
- Transmission variant verified (avoid receiving wrong 5R55 variant)
- Donor vehicle and year documented
- Engine pairing confirmed (4.0L Cologne V6 specific)
- All 5 gears tested before shipping
- 2WD vs 4WD configuration documented
- Free freight pallet delivery to all 50 states
- 15 day replacement warranty on internal defects
- Ford Explorer / Ranger experienced support team
- Cross-reference assistance for 5R55W / 5R55S / 5R55N customers
Jason Anderson (verified owner) –
Purchased the 5R55E transmission from Vaz Auto Solutions for my Ford Explorer. Smooth shifts and reliable performance. Very satisfied with the purchase.
Robert Davis (verified owner) –
I opted for the 5R55E transmission from Vaz Auto Solutions for my Lincoln Aviator. It arrived promptly, well-packaged, and has restored the vehicle’s performance to like-new condition. Very pleased with the quality and service.