The transmission in your vehicle is one of the most complex systems found in your vehicle, and it all starts in your gearbox. Unless you are an auto mechanic, most of us know that when you put your key in and start your engine, all you do is put your car in drive and away you go. But the transmission is responsible for moving the crankshaft, which moves the wheels. It also increases torque, so the engine is not working overtime when accelerating at high speeds.
Numerous components make up the transmission, including the torque converter and planetary gear sets.
If you have ever needed to replace the transmission in your vehicle, you know it is a big, expensive job. It is one of the reasons many people that need to replace it use aftermarket parts. Many people also choose to swap out their transmission to increase performance in their current vehicles.
Transmission Replacement Options and their Pros and Cons:
If you are looking to replace your 6-speed transmission, here are some options for you to consider along with some pros and cons for each.
ZF 6HP Transmission:
The BMW 7-Series, built-in 2000, was the first vehicle that offered a 6-speed transmission. They chose the ZF 6HP26 model, made by ZF Friedrichshafen AG. The same German company that made the gears for the 1915 Zeppelin. After its fateful crash, the company started manufacturing auto parts, including transmissions.
This transmission is used in many cars and developed for use in vehicles that require high-horsepower needs.
PROS:
- Highly functional transmission, but with a smaller footprint
- Used state-of-the-art 6HP26 transmission control module, which weighed 24-pounds less
- The 6HP26 torque converter can lockup in all six gears
CONS:
- The ZF 6HP26 controls the gear rations with seven When one goes bad, problems like delayed shifts, inability to shift gears and slipping can happen.
- The torque converter can lockup while in first gear, which can put wear and tear on the torque converter. This can cause delayed gear response, slipping, transmission overheating, and noise emanating from the transmission.
Ford 6R80 Transmission:
The Ford 6R80 is a six-speed automatic transmission and was created similar to the ZF 5HP26, built under license by Ford. It was initially used in the 2006 Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer. Since the transmission was more prominently used over a decade ago, most of them are bought and sold as rebuilt or remanufactured 6R80 transmissions now.
PROS:
- The transmission is versatile enough to fit both two-and all-wheel-drive vehicles.
- The 6R offers an extremely smooth ride.
- Most Ford transmission problems are easy to ascertain by the Transmission Control Module (TCM), which can be discovered with a scanner.
CONS:
- The 6R automatic transmission, coined “Power shift” by Ford initially had problems with calibrating computer controls that could cause the cars to lurch.
- RPMs can increase before the launch takes place.
- The vehicles with the 6R would often vibrate when it accelerated.
- The car would go into neutral on a random basis.
6L80 Transmission:
The 6L08 transmission was first used in the 2006 Corvette and has been a popular choice for many other top manufacturers.
PROS:
- The 6L80 has become the preferred transmission in many GM vehicles like the Escalade, GMC Sierra, Denali, Yukon Denali, Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Corvette, and the Hummer H2.
- The solenoids are all contained in a single assembly, called the Control Solenoid Box/TCM assembly, and considered a very reliable choice.
CONS:
- The driver may experience poor control because of valve springs.
- Problems with pressure loss because of the center support seal as the car ages and gains more mileage.
- Loss of hydraulic pressure because of wear on the compensator regulator valve.
- Similar problems associated with this transmission
