The 5R110, known as the Torqshift, is a heavy-duty transmission used behind the 6.0 liter Ford Powerstroke turbodiesel engines in F-250 series pickups. While the 5R110 is a transmission designed to support the heavy towing ability of the F-250, you can improve its performance and longevity with improved cooling without opening the transmission case, or by upgrading the clutch packs, valve body and reprogramming the accumulator body if your transmission is being rebuilt.
Replace the stock transmission pan with a deep sump pan. Heat is the number one killer of transmission, and towing generates additional heat in a 5R110. A deep sump pan will add an extra 8 quarts of fluid capacity, which will allow the transmission to run cooler and thus handle heavier loads. In addition, some aftermarket deep sump pans have a tap to accept a temperature sensor so you can keep track of transmission fluid temperature during towing. Used in conjunction with fresh transmission fluid, this will greatly increase the transmission's resistance to heat under heavy towing.
Replace the torque converter with a heavy-duty unit. For towing heavy loads, a upgraded torque converter can handle up to three times the torque output of the stock unit due to upgraded clutch discs, a billet steel core and steel pump drive.
Upgrade the 5R110 internals. If your 5R110 has failed, you can upgrade the internal components when it is rebuilt. Using heavier duty components can increase the torque rating by 30 percent or more and increase transmission life. Install a high-power boost valve to improve internal lubrication, tighter clutch packs with more clutch material and additional steel construction, and improved bearings to reduce wear. A re-programmed accumulator body with higher line pressure will also result in quick, firm shifts that cause less clutch wear. Companies such as BD Diesel and Suncoast produce high-performance rebuild kits in addition to selling complete high-performance 5R110s.
