10-Speed Automatic Transmission Assembly with Torque Converter for 2018-2020 Ford

A quick look at your own vehicle makes sure the right transmission shows up:

• Confirm truck is a 4x4 (4WD) model with front CV shafts and front differential.
• Confirm engine is either the 2.7L EcoBoost or 3.5L EcoBoost V6.
• Check the Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver's side door jamb under 'TR' for code 'G'.
• Confirm truck has a standard mechanical shifter and not an electronic dial or fold-away shifter.

What the install really takes — plan and budget with confidence:

Special tools this job needs:

• Ford 307-569 Transmission Line Disconnect Tool
• High-lift transmission jack with safety straps
• Heated transmission fluid back-flush machine
• J2534 pass-thru scan tool (Ford IDS/FDRS or FORScan with high-quality OBDLink adapter)

Budget for these consumables at install:

• Motorcraft MERCON ULV (Ultra-Low Viscosity) fluid only (Specification WSS-M2C949-A / Part XT-12-QULV)
• New transmission filter (Ford part FT-202) and pan gasket
• Front pump/torque converter input shaft seal
• Transfer case adapter seal
• Heated transmission cooler back-flush

What your vehicle’s computers will need after the swap:

What’s involved: Solenoid Body Strategy and Identification programming, followed by a TCM Adaptive Relearn

Every 10R80 transmission is custom-calibrated from the factory. The 12-digit Solenoid ID and 13-digit Solenoid Strategy printed on the tag must be programmed into the truck's computer. Driving without programming these codes will apply incorrect shift pressures, which can permanently burn out the clutches on the first test drive.

Pro tips for a smooth first start-up — hand them to whoever does the install:

• Torque Converter Alignment: Ensure the torque converter is fully seated onto the internal pump gears before bolting the bellhousing to the engine to avoid cracking the front pump.
• Checking Fluid Level: Must check fluid level with the engine running, in Park, on a level surface, and with fluid temperature warmed up to exactly 206°F to 215°F (96°C to 101°C) using the dipstick on the passenger side of the case.
• Adaptive Learning Drive Cycle: A specific, lengthy drive cycle must be performed after programming to allow the computer to learn the hydraulic properties of the new unit.
• Cooler Flush: Mandatory heated back-flush of the cooler lines to prevent old debris from clogging the highly sensitive CIDAS solenoids.

Easy to get right once you know them:

• Reusing the old solenoid strategy and driving immediately without updating the computer.
• Using the wrong fluid (such as standard Mercon LV, Mercon V, or multi-vehicle synthetic ATF) instead of Mercon ULV.
• Checking the fluid level cold, leading to running 2 to 3 quarts low on fluid.
• Ordering for a V8 or 2WD truck instead of a 4x4 EcoBoost V6 model.
• Skipping the heated cooler flush, which contaminates the replacement unit with debris.
• Cracking the front pump by forcing the transmission and engine together with unseated torque converter.

Not issues with the units on this page — the manufacturer documented these for every transmission of this family, wherever you buy one. Handy for your installer: