I'm going to replace the filter as a first step towards getting in and seeing if I can figure out what's going on before going to a transmission shop. I'm trying to identify which transmission I have since RockAuto shows two possibilities: a 5R55E and a 5R44E. O'Reilly offers multiple (differently-shaped) filters that say they're compatible with various combinations of 4R44E, 4R55E, 5R44E, and 5R55E models. Advance Auto Parts has options for the 5R55E and the 5R44E. Autozone claims their Duralast filter will work for all of the aforementioned models.
I'm only concerned about this because in
ChrisFix's video on changing the filter, he says there are different standoff distances for the filter on some transmission models, and he got the wrong one.
I got under the truck and got the part number or serial number off the side of the transmission, but didn't see a model number that matched any of the -R--E patterns. There was also a stamped metal tag sticking off of it, but it didn't have a model number either.
Here's what I've been able to find:
According to therangerstation.com, all 2002 3.0L automatics had a 5R44E transmission.
Multiple sources say the transmission code can be found on the sticker on the side of the door.
According to both therangerstation.com and
itstillruns.com, the "D" code indicates a 5R55E transmission.
I've attached a picture of my door sticker. In the bottom, it seems to have a transmission code of "D," under "TR." I don't know if any of this even makes a difference, the pan may be the same depth on both types. I just want to be sure before I pull off the drain pan and find out I've either got to leave the old filter in there or seal it up and find another way to get to work for a few days while a different one comes in.