Troubleshooting the 5r55 transmission for dummies

I will continue to clean this up and simplify it. Feel free to add to this and if you are a moderator edit it as necessary if you are so inclined.

1) check the fluid...there is no dip stick, here are the instructions.

http://www.fordservoboretransmissio...5/8/1/1/5811077/5r55w_fluid_level_setting.pdf
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUP-nOsoJMA

2) check the codes...this link will help determine what the codes mean. hopefully I can get some help with what the
transmission codes mean in laymen's terms

http://www.trnw.net/z-search/5R55S.php
www.trnw.net/z-search/5R55W.php trouble codes
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=191861 (alternative methods for checking codes)

3) check the fluid pressure...this thread will help with the procedure. again I would like help explaining what incorrect pressures indicate in terms of parts replacement

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=117998 Transmission pressure

4) change the fluid...this thread will help you change the fluid

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=118654

5) check the servos...this will help you understand servos

http://www.fordservoboretransmissio...5/8/1/1/5811077/transmission_instructions.pdf

6) check the solenoids...here is the process to check the solenoids.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=341593
http://www.fordservoboretransmissio...1/5811077/solenoid_ohm_reading_directions.pdf

7) replacing solenoids

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=164055

8) tighten the bands...this will help you properly tighten the bands

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=158160