The main reason I'm looking into modding my tranny on my 1997 F-150 (4.6L Ext. Cab 4x4) is mainly for pulling my 18 foot Lund fishing boat.

I have several questions regarding performance enhancers. If I were to buy a hypertech performance chip, would I need a Transpak found here? Would the transpak be the right product for my application, or is there a cheaper alternative that would do the job just as well? Thanks fella's

-Karson

 

Don't bother modding your 97 trans you are just asking for trouble. You have 2 options.
#1 and best buy a factory tech 4r70w monsterbox
#2 get a late model trans build it to 01 specs with extra clutches, install a factory tech valvebody and a factory tech torque converter.
Alan

 

are there issues with the '97 trannies that would warrant an aftermarket or later-model replacement?

what would be wrong with a b&m kit of some sort? it's not like a hi-po truck of any sorts...matter of fact it's bone stock. all i'm looking at is a B&M Shift Improver Kit, B&M Transpak, or the B&M Shiftplus. Not a 3,000 dollar new transmission.

keep in mind...all i'd really need it for is towin assistance for the 3 hour fishing trip i take towing my 18' fishing boat...thanks for your help

 

Do not install a B&M shift kit or you will regret it. The 97 transmission had alot of weak links that merit a later model unit. 98 is considerably better 2001up is best.
Alan

 

i don't mean to be thickheaded but I think I'm going to go ahead and try it....haven't seen any real issues anywhere else to make me think otherwise...

 

Well if you know more than the experts go right ahead. I personally have never used a b&m kit. I have heard enough horror stories to not bother.
Read what you find here http://www.tccoa.com/articles/tranny/index.html
Be careful in the mods you make becuase truck valvebodies are different than car valvebodies.
The Factory Tech shift kit is cheaper than the B&M kit, you might want to look into it. I'm not going to try to convince you it's your truck do what you want. If it bites you too bad.
I could probably tell you about every piece of my transmission internally. You need to read up before making your mind.
Alan