5R55E Clutch Module 1990-1996, new and ready to install. Fits the 5R55E. Ships fast from the USA.
Owners of 1990s Explorers, Navajos, Rangers and Aerostars often search for a 5R55E clutch kit when the truck starts slipping, because 5R55E is the name that shows up on parts lists for the whole family. This module is the friction disc set built for the 1990-1996 units in that family: the hydraulic A4LD and the electronic 4R44E and 4R55E. It is listed under part number A56119C (industry 041752C) with the 5R55E in its interchange. Before buying, use the guide below to work out which unit is actually under your truck.
Sonnax dates the 4R44E to 1995 with the 2.3L and 3.0L engines, the 4R55E to 1996 with the 4.0L, and the change to five speeds, when the units were renamed 5R44E and 5R55E, to 1997. The Ranger Station adds that the 5R55E has no extra gearset; its fifth ratio comes from applying the front servo differently. So a truck built from 1990 through 1996 has an A4LD, 4R44E or 4R55E, not a 5R55E. The A4LD uses a vacuum modulator and a two- or three-pin solenoid connector, while the 4R units are fully electronic with an EPC solenoid. Check the transmission code on the door label, and our 5R55 identification guide explains how the E differs from the later N, W and S.
Each of these transmissions pairs the C3-based geartrain with a front overdrive section. Clutch work is split between the coast clutch up front and the forward and reverse-high clutches behind it, with three bands holding the rest. When those lined discs glaze or wear thin, the clutch needs more pressure and more time to lock, and the unit starts to slip and run hot. A full friction set lets you renew every pack at once rather than guess which clutch went first.
Do not stop at the fluid smell. Overheating does most of the damage in the A4LD, so check cooler flow and the vacuum modulator line for fluid. On the electronic units, Sonnax reports EPC circuit leaks in the valve body and coast clutch valve leakage that can take out 4th and engine braking even with good clutches. A pressure gauge on the line tap will separate a pressure fault from worn discs. Our harsh or delayed shift walkthrough lays out the test order.
Listed for 1990-1996 A4LD, 4R44E, 4R55E, 5R44E and 5R55E. Matching vehicles include the 1991-1994 Explorer and Navajo, 1990-1994 Ranger and Aerostar, and 1995-1996 4R44E and 4R55E Rangers and B-series. If your unit is a genuine 1997-up 5R55E, compare every disc with your originals, since this set predates the five-speed. Earlier 1985-1989 units take the 1985-1989 friction module. When unsure, send us your year and VIN. Browse the 5R55 collection for related parts.
| Fits | 5R55E 1990-1996 |
| Part type | Clutch Module |
| Condition | New |
| Brand | OEM |
| Reference | A56119C |
| Ships | From the USA |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
No. A 1994 Explorer automatic is an A4LD. The five-speed 5R55E arrived in 1997. This 1990-1996 friction set is listed for the A4LD.
The A4LD has a vacuum modulator on the case and a small two- or three-pin solenoid plug. The 4R44E and 4R55E are fully electronic with an EPC solenoid. The door label code also tells you.
Only if the reverse-high clutch is worn. On the electronic units a delayed reverse is often low line pressure, so test pressure before replacing parts.
Replace any steel that is blued, glazed or not flat. Good steels can be reused after cleaning.
Mercon V. It is the recommended replacement for the original Mercon in the A4LD and is correct for the 4R44E and 4R55E.
