Ford Power Stroke Transmission History: 1994 to Present

1994.5–1997: 7.3L Power Stroke – E4OD / ZF5 Manual

• Automatic: E4OD 4-speed
  • Electronically controlled version of the C6
  • Known for weak torque converters and limited cooling
  • Prone to overheating under heavy load without upgrades
• Manual: ZF5 5-speed
  • Strong and simple
  • Excellent for towing and durability
  • Clunky but dependable

1999–2003: 7.3L Power Stroke – 4R100 / ZF6 Manual

• Automatic: 4R100 4-speed
  • Updated E4OD with improved electronics
  • Still weak in stock form under heavy load or tuning
  • Popular upgrade paths: better torque converters, valve bodies, and coolers
• Manual: ZF6 6-speed
  • Heavy-duty and more refined than the ZF5
  • Great for control and longevity
  • Syncro wear common with age

2003–2007: 6.0L Power Stroke – 5R110 TorqShift

• Automatic Only: 5R110W “TorqShift” 5-speed (technically a 6-speed with dual second gear)
  • Much stronger than 4R100
  • Adaptive shifting and tow-haul mode
  • Known issues: TCC (Torque Converter Clutch) lockup problems, solenoid packs, and cooler flow
  • Can handle moderate tuning with proper cooling and tuning adjustments

2008–2010: 6.4L Power Stroke – 5R110 TorqShift (Updated)

• Same 5R110W platform, tuned for the twin-turbo 6.4L
• Better factory cooling and line pressure
• Still suffers under heavy tuning or hotshot use
• No manual transmission offered

2011–2019: 6.7L Power Stroke – 6R140 TorqShift

• Automatic Only: 6-speed heavy-duty TorqShift
  • Built specifically for the 6.7L platform
  • Capable of handling 800 lb-ft of torque
  • Very reliable with proper maintenance
  • Common issues: intermediate shaft failure, line pressure sensors, occasional converter issues
  • Easily tunable and performs well under added horsepower

2020–Present: 6.7L High Output – 10R140 TorqShift

• Automatic Only: 10-speed TorqShift
  • Ford’s newest heavy-duty transmission
  • Designed for better fuel economy and more responsive shifting
  • Closer gear ratios for smoother towing
  • Still being tested long-term, but early signs show durability
  • Known for fast shifting and low-end torque control

Power Stroke Transmission Comparison Table

Years	Engine	Transmission	Type	Known Issues
1994.5–1997	7.3L	E4OD / ZF5	Auto / Manual	Overheating (E4OD), syncro wear (ZF5)
1999–2003	7.3L	4R100 / ZF6	Auto / Manual	TCC failure, torque limitations (4R100)
2003–2007	6.0L	5R110W TorqShift	Automatic	Solenoid packs, cooler flow, TCC lockup
2008–2010	6.4L	5R110W (Updated)	Automatic	Same as above, moderate reliability
2011–2019	6.7L	6R140 TorqShift	Automatic	Intermediate shaft, converter issues
2020–Present	6.7L HO	10R140 TorqShift	Automatic	Still early in life, promising performance

Final Thoughts

Ford’s Power Stroke transmission lineup has come a long way since the early E4OD days. The TorqShift series marked a major leap in capability and control, with the 10R140 setting the bar for diesel towing performance today. Whether you're rebuilding an old 4R100 or pushing the limits of a tuned 6.7L, knowing your transmission’s strengths and limits is key to getting the most from your Power Stroke truck.

By: Adam