Hey guys, 2004 FX4 here.
Starting to have issues with my transmission. Automatic, 5R55E. It clunks in gear changes every once in a while, and there's a loud groaning sound that I believe is coming from the transmission, and most recently i just found out my bell housing has a big crack in it, so I'm starting to explore my options.
I do all my own work to my vehicles, so pulling a trans in and out is no problem to me, but I'm a little daunted by doing the rebuild myself. But I also cannot afford to put more than ~$1000 into it to fix the transmission.
My local junkyard is filled with Rangers, and they only want $130 for a trans.
Would that be worth it? Even if I do put it in and its worse than mine, I believe I can return it up to 30 days, and try again.
I'm even considering getting the junkyard transmission, and rebuilding THAT transmission, so I can keep driving my truck in the mean time, and swapping it in once I rebuild with a $500 ebay rebuild kit. That way I can take my time or be able to leave it if I run into issues, and not have to get it all done in one weekend.
Why do I not see this method talked about for trans repairs, something I know we all have issues with.
Are there hidden difficulties, low success rates, or hidden issues I'm not seeing?
Any advice for those who have gone down this path before me would be super helpful.
Thank you!

The 5 spd autos have a solid reputation. If you are that poor, then find one at a junk yard and just swap it out.

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