Ford Transmission Identification Numbers: From ‘TR’ Codes to Pan Bolts and Engineering

The Easiest Method: How to Read Your Ford’s Door Jamb ‘TR’ Code

For most Ford owners, the fastest and most accessible method for identifying the vehicle’s original transmission is by consulting the Safety Compliance Certification Label.

Where to Find the Safety Compliance Certification Label

This label is a sticker—typically white and black or blue and black—located on the driver’s side door jamb, affixed to the door latch post pillar. This label contains a wealth of factory information, including the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), exterior paint code (EXT PNT), axle code (AXLE), spring code (SPR), and, most importantly, the transmission code.

What is the ‘TR’ Code?

On the certification label, a small box labeled ‘TR’ contains a single-letter or single-number code. This code specifies the exact transmission model that was installed in the vehicle when it was manufactured at the Ford factory.

It is critical to understand that this code represents the vehicle’s as-built configuration. It cannot account for a transmission that may have been swapped by a previous owner. If the vehicle has a salvage title or a long, unknown service history, this code may not reflect the hardware currently in the truck.

Ford Transmission ‘TR’ Code Lookup Chart

A common misconception is that ‘TR’ codes are universal. They are not. The same code can be used for different transmissions depending on the vehicle model, year, and class. For instance, the ‘TR’ code ‘G’ designates the 10R80 10-speed automatic in a 2018 F-150, but the same ‘G’ code signifies the much heavier-duty 10R140 10-speed automatic in a 2020 Super Duty truck.

The following chart provides a guide to the most common ‘TR’ codes found in Ford vehicles, with their necessary context.

Data Table 1: Common Ford ‘TR’ Code Designations

What to Do If Your Door Jamb Sticker is Missing or Illegible

It is extremely common for this label to be missing, painted over, or damaged to the point of being unreadable. If this is the case, there is a clear path for obtaining a replacement, though it depends on the vehicle’s age.

• If your vehicle is 5 model years old or newer: A Ford Dealer can order a replacement Safety Compliance Certification Label.
• If your vehicle is older (1967-2021): Ford has licensed only two companies to produce replacement labels:(https://www.martiauto.com/) and(https://www.ecsvin.com/). These vendors are authorized by Ford and can create a new label using the VIN. It is important to be cautious, as many other sources claim to be authorized but are not licensed.
• For all other vehicles: The Ford Customer Relationship Center (1-800-392-3673) may be able to provide a Technical Data Sheet if the VIN is provided.

Visual ID: The Transmission Pan and Bolt Count Guide

If the ‘TR’ code is missing or a transmission swap is suspected, the next-best identification method is to get under the vehicle. Each transmission model has a uniquely shaped oil pan and a specific bolt pattern, which act as a physical fingerprint.

By safely securing the vehicle and sliding underneath, a mechanic can count the bolts holding the transmission pan to the case and note its shape (square, rectangular, or irregular) to find a match.

Solving the 4R70W 14-Bolt vs. 16-Bolt Confusion

This method is highly reliable, but it is not without its points of common confusion. A prime example is the identification of the 4R70W transmission. Some resources may list the 4R70W with a 14-bolt pan. However, other technical sources specify its predecessor, the AOD, as having 14 bolts, while the electronically controlled AODE/4R70W has 16 bolts. This discrepancy is a frequent cause of incorrect part orders.

The 16-bolt count is the correct identifier for the AODE/4R70W family, while the 14-bolt pan is characteristic of the older AOD and the unrelated FMX/Cruise-O-Matic transmissions.

Ford Transmission Pan Identification Chart (Bolt Count and Shape)

The following table provides a definitive guide for identifying common Ford transmissions by their pan bolt count and distinguishing features.

Data Table 2: Ford Transmission Pan Bolt Count and Shape Guide

At-a-Glance: Identifying the “Big Three” Classic Transmissions (C4 vs. C6 vs. FMX)

For restorers of classic Ford trucks and cars, simply distinguishing between the C4, C6, and FMX is a primary goal. Beyond the pan bolt count, there is an even more definitive identifier: the case and bellhousing.

• C4 (Light-Duty): This transmission is easily identified by its 11-bolt pan and, most importantly, its bolt-on bellhousing.¹⁹ The case, bellhousing, and tail housing are three separate pieces.
• C6 (Heavy-Duty): This transmission is a single, heavy unit. It features a 17-bolt pan with an “S” curve and a one-piece bellhousing and main case design.
• FMX (Medium-Duty): This transmission can be identified by its 14-bolt pan.

This combination of bolt-on vs. one-piece case is an expert-level confirmation that is more reliable than the pan shape alone, as pans can be replaced with aftermarket models.

The Definitive ID: Finding and Decoding the Physical Transmission Tag

When the door jamb sticker is gone and the transmission pan is an aftermarket deep-pan model, the only 100% definitive source of identification is the physical tag on the transmission itself. This is the “court of final appeal.”

Where to Find the ID Tag on the Transmission Case

The ID tag is a metal plate or, on newer models, a sticker, attached directly to the transmission housing. Its location varies:

• Automatics: Often found on the driver’s side of the case, above the pan rail.
• Manuals: Typically on the top or side of the main case.
• Classic Toploaders: Famously located on a riveted metal tag on the passenger side (right side) of the main case, near the front.

An owner will typically find one of two distinct types of identification numbers, and each is decoded differently. The identification method depends on the vehicle’s era.

Path A: How to Decode Modern Ford Engineering Numbers (1980s–Present)

On most transmissions from the 1980s onward, the tag will display an “engineering number.” It is essential to understand that the engineering number (the number physically on the part) is not the same as the “part number” (the number used to order a replacement from a parts catalog)

This engineering number follows a rigid 3-part structure: Prefix - Group - Suffix. For example, a tag may read E9TP-7000-AA.

The 4-digit prefix is the key to identification.

Data Table 3: Decoding the Ford Engineering Number Prefix

By finding this tag, an owner can instantly confirm the part’s origin. In the example E9TP-7000-AA, the prefix decodes as:

• E = 1980s
• 9 = 1989
• T = Truck
• P = Automatic Transmission

This immediately confirms the part is an automatic transmission component originally designed for a 1989 Ford truck.

Path B: How to Decode Classic Metal ID Tags (1960s–1970s)

On classic Fords, particularly from the 1960s and 1970s, the transmission will feature a riveted metal tag. These tags do not use the prefix decoding system. Instead, they use a 3-letter or 3-letter-and-number code (e.g., PCD-AA or HEH-A) that must be cross-referenced on an application chart.

These codes are the definitive source for identifying classic transmissions, including the legendary Ford Toploader 4-Speed.

Data Table 4: Example Classic Transmission Tag Code Applications

Can You Identify a Ford Transmission by VIN? (The Ambiguity Problem)

A common question is whether the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can be used to identify the transmission. The short answer is no, not definitively.

The VIN is probabilistic, not deterministic. Here is how it works, and where it fails:

How to Use Your VIN for Transmission Clues

The 8th character of a modern VIN typically identifies the vehicle’s engine. From the engine, one can infer the transmission. For example, a 2021 F-150 with an 8th VIN character of ‘4’ corresponds to the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine was exclusively paired with the 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission. In this case, the inference is accurate.

The “Ambiguity Problem”: Why the VIN is Not a Definitive Source

The inference method fails in any situation where one engine can be paired with multiple transmissions.

A perfect example is the 2020 Ford Mustang with an 8th VIN character of ‘H’, signifying the 5.0L V8 engine. This engine was offered from the factory with either the 10R80 automatic transmission or the MT82 6-speed manual transmission. The VIN provides no information to distinguish between the two.

This ambiguity is why transmission specialists know that the VIN often fails to provide sufficient information for a part order.

The true value of the VIN is not as a decoder itself, but as an “authentication key.” The VIN is required to:

• Contact the Ford Customer Relationship Center for a Technical Data Sheet.
• Order a Marti Report for a classic vehicle.
• Request a Build Sheet or “VIN Decode Letter” from Ford.

Authoritative Resources and Getting a Replacement Tag

If all physical identification methods fail, the final step is to turn to authoritative documentation.

For Classic Vehicles (1967+): Marti Auto Works and ECS Automotive

As mentioned, Ford has licensed only two companies to produce replacement Safety Compliance (door jamb) labels and other vehicle documents: Marti Auto Works and ECS Automotive Concepts. A Marti Report, in particular, is considered the definitive “build sheet” for classic Fords, detailing every component the car was built with, including the transmission.

Vehicle owners should be wary of unlicensed vendors claiming to be authorized by Ford.

For All Vehicles: Ford Official Channels

The original window sticker or a build sheet also contains the transmission information. These can sometimes be requested from Ford. For parts lookups, the official Ford Parts website can be used to find components associated with a VIN.³⁵

For Rebuilders and Professionals: The “Pro-Level” Toolkit

For shops and professional rebuilders, the industry-standard resource is the. ATSG provides highly detailed technical manuals, diagnostic hotlines, and professional seminars for the transmission repair industry. They are the resource the professionals trust for in-depth rebuild and diagnostic information.

Conclusion

Identifying a Ford transmission accurately is the critical first step for any service, repair, or restoration. Using a 5-step funnel of certainty ensures the correct parts are ordered the first time.

1. Fastest Check: The ‘TR’ code on the driver’s door jamb label.
2. Visual Check: The pan bolt count and shape under the vehicle.
3. Definitive Check: The physical engineering tag or metal ID tag on the transmission case.
4. Clue-Finder: The VIN, used to identify the engine and as a key to order official documents.
5. Final Recourse: Authoritative documents from Marti Auto Works or Ford.

Taking the time to follow these methods is the difference between a successful one-day repair and a costly, multi-week ordeal with the wrong parts. Knowing the transmission model is a critical piece of vehicle data, just as important as knowing the engine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What Ford transmission do I have by VIN?

A: You often cannot get a 100% definitive ID from the VIN alone. The VIN’s 8th character identifies the engine, but one engine can be paired with multiple transmissions (e.g., a 2020 Mustang 5.0L V8 can have a 10-speed auto or 6-speed manual).15 The best way is to check the ‘TR’ code on your door jamb sticker or the physical tag on the transmission case.

Q: What is the ‘TR’ code on a Ford door sticker?

A: The ‘TR’ code is a single-digit or letter code found on the Safety Compliance Certification Label in your driver’s door jamb. It specifies the exact transmission model your vehicle had when it left the factory. Common codes include U (4R70W), K (C6), 6 (6R80), and G (10R80).

Q: How do I identify a Ford 4R70W transmission?

A: There are three primary ways: 1) Look for a ‘TR’ code of ‘U’ on the door jamb sticker.6 2) Get under the truck and count the transmission pan bolts. The AODE/4R70W has a rectangular pan with 16 bolts.17 Do not confuse it with its 14-bolt predecessor, the AOD. 3) Find the engineering tag on the case.

Q: How do I tell a C4 from a C6 transmission?

A: These are easily distinguished. The light-duty C4 has a small, square pan with 11 bolts and a bolt-on bellhousing.18 The heavy-duty C6 has a large, irregular pan with 17 bolts, a distinctive “S” curve on the rear edge, and a one-piece case and bellhousing.

Q: Where can I get a replacement door jamb sticker for my Ford?

A: If your vehicle is less than five model years old, a Ford Dealer can assist.1 If it’s a 1967–2021 model, the only two companies licensed by Ford to make replacement labels are Marti Auto Works and ECS Automotive Concepts.