98 specific trans?

[kanuck15]

Ok so my 1998 3.0 4x4 4r44e is on its way out, I have been told by every junk yard around here that the 98s are specific and I cant use a 99 or 00 in my truck. They want an arm and a leg for 98 transmissions for some reason. Is there any truth to this or can I just tell them they are wrong and get a 99-00 transmission?

 

[Earl43P]

Read this: http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34303

 

[kanuck15]

Ok well today I went to ford and they said that its stupid and there is no difference that makes a 98 special. exact same is 97-00

Earl I just read that entire thread, What I have gathered is I can take any auto trans and as long as I can swap my bellhousing and front pump on it then it will work?