1991 ford explorer 4x4 help please!!

[jasmith]

I just bought a 1991 ford explorer,eddie bauer edition,automatic transmmission,4x4.My problem is that when I put it in reverse the reverse lights come on but it doesnt reverse,and when I put it in Neutral it drives forward,I am at a complete loss,I just bought it so I have no maintnence records,the engine sounds like it has sticky valves too if that might help

Thanks in advance!This forum is great very helpful,from what i've searched,it seems like it might be the z link??But any suggestions would be great!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! # 31 in my list of useful threads has information on the Z link: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=155599

 

[jasmith]

Yes I saw that thread,so I think that might be it,and thanks the forum is great!Also it says that just causes it to be stuck in a single gear or not moving,mine just wont go backwards,and drives in neutral.

 

[jasmith]

I was told by a mechanic it probably just needs the shift linkage adjusted,is this true?

 

[BrooklynBay]

You could try to adjust it. A bent Z link could throw off all of the settings, and not just one.

 

[jasmith]

Adjust the linkage or the z link?What would it take to fix the z link?anyone have a diy

 

[BrooklynBay]

Adjust the linkage first. The Z link is in the pan, and is not easy to get to unless you drop the pan, and drain the fluid. It could get messy.

 

[jasmith]

Have a diy for adjusting the shifter?

 

[BrooklynBay]

Check the links in # 19 in my list of useful threads.

 

[jasmith]

It is not the shift linkage,it is alligned when its in reverse the reverse lights come on as if it is in reverse it just doesnt budge,and when put it N it drives,I am completely lost,I am about fed up with it....anyone have suggestions

 

[BrooklynBay]

It could have a blown valve body gasket or the valve body might need to be rebuilt.

 

[jasmith]

Hmm how would I check that,and how much do they usually run?Where is it located?

 

[BrooklynBay]

Check the sticky thread on the top of the transmission section called the A4LD valve body rebuild diary. I have additional links in my list of useful threads such in # 16 & # 69.