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The Ford E4OD and 4R100 Transmissions

Electronically Controlled
4 Forward Gears
OD = Over Drive

Introduced in 1989, the E4OD was Ford's first electronically controlled transmission. Based on core components of the C6, this transmission was used in many light and heavy duty vehicles including the Bronco, F-150, F-250, and F-350. While physically too large for use in most passenger cars, these transmissions are popular upgrades for older trucks and larger vehicles that were originally equipped with a 3 speed automatic. With the addition of an overdrive, increased fuel economy and a better driving experience can be had by choosing one of these units for your project. This transmission is also very robust, with power and torque handling capabilities (especially when upgraded) that make it a popular choice for diesel enthusiasts. The E4OD was produced in several different bolt patterns, which also makes it popular for a swap or upgrade. These include small block, big block (385 series, not FE), diesel, and modular bolt patterns.


The Ford E4OD Transmission

Ford E4OD Transmission


Important Years

  • 1989 - 1997 was the E4OD production run
  • 1997 was the transition year to the 4R100 and vehicles from this year could be found with either transmission.

The 4R100 was introduced as the replacement for the E4OD and was internally stronger for use in the Powerstroke Diesel trucks. While almost identical on the exterior, not all parts are interchangeable between these two units, so care must be exercised to insure compatibility. Unlike the E4OD, these units have a dedicated output shaft speed sensor located towards the rear of the transmission. A PWM (pulse-width modulated) torque converter clutch solenoid was also added, first to 4R100s in diesel applications and later to all 4R100s.


E4OD / 4R100 Specs

  • Weight: 270 lbs. (dry with converter)
  • Case: Aluminum
  • Fluid Capacity: 18 quarts Mercon V (total with torque converter)

Gear Ratios:

  • 1st: 2.71
  • 2nd: 1.54
  • 3rd: 1.00
  • 4th: 0.71

Not all E4OD transmissions come with the gear machined into the output shaft to drive a cable-drive speedometer. In 1992, Ford started using the differential speed sensor to run the electronic speedometer in trucks and omitted the drive gear from the output shaft. Transmissions without the gear can have the output shaft changed, but complete transmission disassembly is required since the output shaft is in the back and the transmission disassembles from the front.


E4OD's Bad Range Sensor

Early E4OD Range Sensors are Prone to Failure

E4OD transmissions manufactured prior to 1995 had an issue with the MLPS, or “Range Sensor”. It was determined to be inadequately weather-proof, allowing water to enter the connector and corrode the pins, causing electrical problems. It is always recommended that this sensor be replaced with an updated 1995 or newer style, if it has not been already.

The Quick 4 Controller

The Quick 4 Standalone Transmission Control System

Click here to learn more about using the Quick 4 to control E4OD and 4R100 transmissions.