5R110W TorqShift TFT Sensor Replacement

How to Replace the TFT Sensor in a 5R110W TorqShift Transmission

Applicable Models:

2003 - 2010 Ford F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 Super Duty

Applicable Engine(s):

6.0L Power Stroke diesel, 6.4L Power Stroke diesel

Applicable Transmission(s):

Ford Motor Company 5R110W TorqShift five speed automatic

The transmission fluid temperature (TFT) sensor on the 5R110W is a thermistor type temperature sensor located between the PC-A and TCC solenoids in the solenoid body of the transmission. In addition to providing transmission temperature to the dash gauge, the TFT sensor input is used by the PCM to determine cold/hot shift strategies and control the torque converter lockup/release schedule. A failed or faulty TFT sensor is typically determined by an erratic or non-functioning dash gauge.

Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor Parts List

Part Description Part Number(s) Remarks/Notes
Transmission fluid temperature sensor (TFT) Ford BC3Z-7H141-A ---
Transmission pan gasket Ford F6TZ-7A191-A [1]
Internal transmission filter 6.0L Power Stroke Motorcraft FT-144 [2]
6.4L Power Stroke Motorcraft FT-180
External transmission filter Motorcraft FT-145
Ford 3C3Z-7B155-BA
[3]
Automatic transmission fluid Ford MERCON SP ATF [4]
Transmission pan bolts N/A, see footnote [5]

[1] Can be reused if not damaged; replace if suspect gasket is leaking or otherwise compromised.
[2] Recommend replacing internal transmission filter when replacing TFT since transmission pan is removed and fluid drained.
[3] Recommend replacing external/auxiliary transmission filter when replacing TFT.
[4] Use only MERCON SP only; do not substitute with "universal" ATF or any alternative MERCON fluid.
[5] M8 x 1.25 x 14mm long flange bolt, class 9.8, replace as required.

TorqShift Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor Replacement Procedures

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Draining the transmission

• Disconnect both negative battery cables.

• Place a suitable catch container below the transmission pan. Remove the drain plug with a 13mm socket/wrench and allow the transmission fluid to drain completely, then replace and tighten the drain plug.

Removing the transmission pan

• Remove 18 of the 20 transmission pan bolts with an 8mm socket. Loosen, but do not remove 2 bolts on either side of the transmission to hold it in place until you're ready to drop it. A variety of the socket extensions and a swivel joint will be necessary to access the rear pan bolts on 4x4 models.

• Support the transmission drain pan with upwards pressure, then remove the last two pan bolts and carefully lower the pan. Clean the pan/pan gasket and set aside.

Removing the transmission filter

• Remove the transmission filter, ensuring that the gasket/o-ring on the neck of the filter does not stick in its cavity in the transmission - it may be necessary to fish it out with a small pick or screwdriver.

Note - discard the used transmission filter, it is not recommended that it be re-used regardless of age.

TFT sensor location in solenoid body of transmission

• The TFT sensor is located between the PC-A and TCC solenoids in the solenoid body of the transmission. These two solenoids are located in the front-most bank (towards bellhousing), passenger side.

• Remove the electrical connector from the TFT sensor.

Removing the faulty TFT sensor

• Use a small pick or screwdriver to release the locking clip at the base of the TFT sensor, then rotate counterclockwise ~ 30° and pull it out of the solenoid body. When the tang on the underside of the sensor aligns with the indentation on the solenoid body, the sensor will slide out with ease - do not force it.

• Install the new TFT sensor in reverse order, inserting it into the solenoid body and rotating clockwise until the tab locks. Reconnect the electrical connector and double check that it is secure.

Replacing the TFT sensor part BC3Z-7H141-A

• Install a new transmission filter.

• Install the transmission pan and pan gasket - torque all bolts to 11 ft-lbs.

• Refill transmission with ATF until the fluid level reaches the cold fill indicator on the transmission dipstick.

• Reconnect battery cables, start truck, and check for leaks. After driving and bringing transmission to operating temperature, re-check fluid level.