TF-81SC Shift Kit, new and ready to install. Fits the TF-81SC. Ships fast from the USA.
If your Ford Fusion, Five Hundred, Mercury Milan, Montego, Lincoln Zephyr or Mazda 6 with the Aisin six-speed automatic double-bumps on hot downshifts, flares on the 2-3 or 3-4, or shudders at a steady cruise, the problem is usually in the valve body and solenoids rather than the clutches. This is the TransGo SK AWF21, the shift kit TransGo builds for the first-generation TF-81SC (also sold as the Ford AWF21 and Mazda AW6A-EL). It is new in its factory-sealed TransGo package.
The TF-81SC applies its clutches through regulator valves that are steered by six linear solenoids, with two normally closed on/off solenoids (labeled N88 and N89 in the TransGo instructions) and an EPC solenoid controlling line pressure. Two things wear out. The aluminum valve bores leak, so a regulator valve cannot hold the pressure the computer asks for, and the linear solenoids build up varnish and bushing drag, so they respond slowly. Either problem turns a crisp shift into a soft or double apply.
The SK AWF21 attacks both. TransGo lists two drop-in solenoid regulator valve assemblies with new bushings, a drop-in TCC lock-up boost valve assembly, new valves, springs and end plugs for specific bores, replacement springs for the C2 and C3 clutch regulator valves (those springs are known to break), and parts plus a procedure to renew the linear pressure control solenoids instead of replacing them.
TransGo's own tech note is a good filter: if the complaints match the list above and the fluid is clean with no burnt smell, the valve body is the likely cause. Pull a fluid sample first. Then check the solenoids. The SK AWF21 instructions call for 5 to 7 ohms across each linear solenoid's pins and an open circuit from either pin to the solenoid body; a solenoid that fails either check must be replaced, not renewed. Our multimeter solenoid test guide walks through it. For lock-up shudder, read our TCC shudder diagnosis guide so you know whether the converter itself is damaged.
TransGo states the SK AWF21 fits Gen 1 TF-81SC, AWF21, AF21 and AW6A-EL units built 2005-2009 that use a 1.100 inch solenoid can outside diameter. The vehicles TransGo names are the 2005-2006 Ford Fusion and Five Hundred, 2005-2006 Mazda 6, 2005-2006 Mercury Montego, and the 2006 Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr. This is the same kit as our 2005-2006 TF-81SC shift kit listing. For a 2007-2009 vehicle, measure a solenoid can before ordering; later units changed and use different kits. The TF-80SC used in Volvo and Saab models is a different valve body. If you are unsure, send us your year and VIN. Browse the rest of the family on our Aisin transmission parts page.
TransGo says the kit installs with the transmission in the car. Before you unplug anything, mark each solenoid so it returns to its original position. The solenoid renewal is a real procedure: the instructions have you grind off the end cap crimp, measure the shaft (0.156-0.157 inch uses the long drill, 0.154-0.155 inch the short one), resize the bushing, clean and check that the armature falls out freely, then reseal the new cap with red thread locker. If you would rather not do that work, or a solenoid failed the ohm test, use a new 8-piece TF-81SC solenoid kit instead.
When the valve body goes back up, start the alignment bolts first and tighten from the center outward. TransGo warns that a long bolt in the wrong hole keeps the valve body from sitting flat and leaks oil from the B2 brake circuit, which shows up as delayed or slipping reverse. Refill with JWS 3309-type ATF, set the level hot at the check plug, clear the adaptive values and do a relearn drive. If the bores are too worn or the castings are damaged, a replacement TF-81SC valve body is the better fix.
| Fits | TF-81SC |
| Part type | Shift Kit |
| Condition | New |
| Brand | TransGo |
| Ships | From the USA |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
Yes. Both are the TransGo SK AWF21. TransGo rates it for Gen 1 TF-81SC, AWF21 and AW6A-EL units from 2005-2009 with a 1.100 inch solenoid can outside diameter.
No. The TF-80SC in Volvo and Saab models uses a different valve body and kit. The SK AWF21 is for the Ford and Mazda TF-81SC family.
Not always. The kit renews the linear solenoids, but TransGo says each one must read 5-7 ohms across its pins and be open from either pin to the body. Any solenoid that fails that check needs to be replaced.
TransGo lists P0731 through P0736, P0741, P0780, P2757 and P2758. Those codes can also come from wiring or a failed converter, so check the circuit and fluid first.
It uses a JWS 3309-type ATF. Check your owner's manual for the exact fluid, set the level hot at the check plug, and use a new filter and pan gasket.
TransGo warns that putting a long support bolt in the wrong hole stops the valve body from sitting flat and leaks the B2 brake circuit, which causes delayed or slipping reverse. Check bolt lengths and locations.
