The E4OD and 4R70W are both Ford four-speed overdrive automatics from the 1990s, but the E4OD is the heavy-duty one. It went into F-250 and F-350 trucks, vans and other heavy applications, while the 4R70W served F-150s, Mustangs and full-size Ford cars. The E4OD is larger and heavier, built for big gas engines and diesels, and the two are not interchangeable without major changes.
E4OD vs 4R70W at a glance
| E4OD | 4R70W | |
|---|---|---|
| Duty | Heavy duty | Light duty |
| Typical vehicles | F-250, F-350, vans, Bronco | F-150, Mustang, Crown Victoria and other full-size Ford cars |
| Gear ratios | 2.71 / 1.54 / 1.00 / 0.71 | 2.84 / 1.55 / 1.00 / 0.70 |
| Control | Electronic | Electronic |
| Fluid | Mercon V | Mercon V |
Which one should a truck have?
Use the one your truck came with, or its direct successor. The E4OD was replaced by the 4R100 in heavy-duty trucks, and the 4R70W by the 4R75W in later light-duty vehicles; see E4OD vs 4R100 and 4R70W vs 4R75W. Putting a 4R70W behind a big-block or diesel is not a good idea.
Common problems
- E4OD: solenoid pack faults, overheating when towing, and worn clutches; see E4OD problems.
- 4R70W: slipping and flare between gears, converter shudder and solenoid faults; see 4R70W problems.
Electronic control on both
Both transmissions are electronically controlled, with shift solenoids, a pressure control solenoid and a torque converter clutch solenoid commanded by the engine computer. Many shifting complaints on these trucks come from the solenoid pack, wiring or a failing sensor rather than worn clutches, so read the codes and check line pressure before condemning the transmission; see transmission solenoid pack and transmission line pressure. Old wiring near the exhaust is a common source of intermittent faults on high-mileage trucks.
Towing
For trailers, the E4OD’s heavier internals and the heavier trucks it came in are the better match, especially with an auxiliary cooler; see transmission coolers. A 4R70W in an F-150 is fine for light towing within the truck’s rating. On either, keep the fluid fresh and use the overdrive cancel button on long grades so the transmission is not hunting between gears.
To confirm your code, check the build data or the identification tag on the transmission; see what transmission do I have?
Replacement units we list
- StreetMonster Ford E4OD: $3,699.00
- SportMonster Ford E4OD: $5,499.00
- StreetMonster Ford 4R70W: $3,199.00
- SportMonster Ford 4R70W: $4,099.00
Each includes a torque converter. Browse E4OD transmissions and 4R70W transmissions.
Shipping is a flat $80.00 per order to US addresses, with 15-day free returns. Questions? Ask a parts specialist.