A4LD Solenoids, buy FORD only?

[Reamer]

Should I buy OEM Ford? or any "Auto parts' store brand?
Just want to do this once, so the better ones are required....
Thanks!

 

[RonD]

Good read here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/a4ld.shtml

Especially this part:

When having an A4LD rebuilt, there are a couple of things that you need to make sure of.
First and foremost, do not let a shop do a soft parts fix only (clutches, servos, and bands). This will almost ensure that you will have another repair needed right after the 1-year warranty is out.
Other things you want to have replaced are: forward one-way clutch (always), overdrive drum (stamped tin, replace if out of round or heat damaged), pump (Ford only, rebuilds are prone to failure), and the converter (get the better converter with the improved lock-up clutch and brazed fins).

The original shift solenoids failed because of heat, newer versions should be better BUT..........all automatics fail because of heat so 2nd trans cooler is required equipment IMO.