When Ford says Electronic 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive Transmission, does the 'overdrive' count as the 4th gear? Or is this a true 4 speed transmission? I mean true 4 speed like, you've got 4 distinct shifts/gears. I'm wondering if many auto makers claim you get a 4 speed tranny but what you really get is a 3 speed with a lock-up torque converter or something like that. Anyone that can shed some light on this, I'd appreciate it. I only see 1, 2, and D on the shifter (lariat 4x4)...or so I remember from seeing it at the dealer. That's why I ask.

 

Fourth gear IS overdrive and it also has a lockup converter.

 

Overdrive is a gear all by itself. So yes it is a true 4-speed automatic with a lock-up torque converter. The reason you only have "1 2 D" is cost savings by not having to make a new wider window there, they can use what they already have, plus you can turn the overdrive on and off with the button on your shifter. Hope this helps you.

 

Yes, that answers my question. I feel better now But one more question. With the lock-up torque converter, does the engine run even slower after it locks up, after overdrive? So does it work like this: 1st gear...shift...2nd gear...shift...3rd gear...shift...overdrive...lock-up (torque converter).

I have a 3 speed auto on my car with a lock-up converter. It shifts 1, 2, 3 and then the converter locks up under the right conditions (IE, you're not stomping on the gas pedal...normal driving and it locks up at a certain speed).

Thanks for your help.

 

There is a small difference in rpms, you may not notice it. The converter will lock or unlock as neccessary, mostly for mileage. It can also lock-up in third gear and under just the right condition it can lock-up in second but thats usually unlikely. When torque converter locks up it is a one to one turn from one side of the torque converter to the other, in other words it isnt allowing any slippage. Didnt want to get too tech, but I hope this helps.

 

Got it, thanks.

 

lariatf150

To see the rpm difference for torque convertor lockup.
Do 50 mph, hold steady throtle,touch brake pedal just enough to put stop lamp on,watch tach.the rpm will go up about 300 rpm.remove foot from brake and rpm will drop about 300 rpm.

Mike