I read somewhere that you need a special tool for the 4r70w shift kit install. is this true? Can't remeber where, I've been all over the net looking at shift kits. looks like transgo is the best choice.
I'm going to do the install myself. Any tips?

 

I didn't use anything special with mine. 30,000 miles on it now and all is well so I must have got it right.

 

the only special tool is a ring tool. I would go with a B&M shift kit they pack alittle more punch i have 24,000 on mine and it is smooth as can be

 

I installed the Transgo kit in my SuperCrew; works great. I set it to the lowest with the Superchip - Mike Troyer's suggestion. When WOT the shifts are hard as a rock. As a matter of fact, the main belt churps loud. I tried every belt dressing; still churps. I would highly recommend the Transgo! I do not have any experience with any other shift kits. You might want to ask Neal about his experience with the other shift kit.

PS - I purchased the ring pliers from Autozone; you will need these for sure.

 

I installed a trango and it rocks...dont forget the deep pan and synthetic oil...cheap insurance...

 

How many miles do you have on your "shift kit" trans? On a side-by-side comparison, will the shift kit increase, decrease or not-affect the transmission life?

 

A properly operating shift kit will extend transmission life. The faster shifts reduce friction material wear and lower heat.

 

I have about 30,000 miles on my 4r70W with the shift kit, and another 35,000 before that. Oil still looks new and things are working fine (I'm knocking on some wood as I type that.)

I don't consider snap ring pliers a special tool, BTW.

 

It will extend the life of the trans...which is the weak part of the f150...

 

Thanks for all the input guys. Ifound out what the special tool is but don't think i will need it. The tool is for the 1-2 accumulator removal and installation. found one online for 50.00. "I don't think so." bought the b&m kit and trick shift synthetic atf read the instructions, looks pretty straight forward. will let you know how it goes.

By the way, the tranny has 100,000 mi. on it but works fine. was going to do a filter change and decided to UPGRADE.

 

Well it took about four hours to install the shift kit and drain plug kit. Used the first stage and i'm very happy. Really cleaned up the shifts. No more hesitation between shifts. The special ford tool is not needed. 1-2 accumulator is easily installed by hand. The drill bit supplied with the kit for the 1st stage isn't marked so i had to check its size on a drill index. other than that it went real smooth. Took my time and double checked everything. oh yea, the instructions say 9-1/2 quarts but if you drain the converter you'll need about 14 qts.

 

What kind of drain plug kit did you use? I plan to install one on my 4R70W soon. Was it welded in or did it use a lock nut? The one I thought about was one of the Motormite Help! products that use a lock nut and plastic washer.

Also, if someone is nice enough I would like to read over a copy of the Transgo install instructions. If you do not want to post them on here you can email me at thomaswright5714@hotmail.com

 

I used the B&M Plug Kit. Simple to install. Drill a 1/2" hole in a spot that wont interfere with anything. I chose the driver side toward the front of the pan. The fitting has a nylon washer. The plug has tapered threads. no leaks so far.