1993 Explorer a4ld 4x4 doesn't move

[sktw8]

I have a 1993 Explorer 4x4. I bought it the other day. Didn't run and was told it needed a transmission. I put a fuel pump in it and got it running. Now it runs great and looks great, but it won't move at all when you put it in gear. Doesn't even feel like it engages. Previous owner said he was driving down the road and the rpms rose and he coasted into a service station and was towed home. That was the last time he drove it. I'm hoping it's something simpler than a complete rebuild. I checked the fluid its full the fluid looks very dark though. I haven't changed the fluid or filter and don't know when it was last changed either. Could that help if it's not moving at all?

I found something about a "z link" could this have anything to do with it?

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=155599

I'm mechanically inclined but have never done much with an automatic transmission. Let me know what else to check.

Thanks,
Jack

Edit: Also I tried to shift to 4x4 and it doesn't seem to do anything and the lights don't light up on the dash. I'm not worried about fixing this right now I just want to get it driving, but I don't want to leave out useful information.

 

[sktw8]

Is there something else y'all would like to know?

Jack

 

[ghosttrain2]

My son's '94 did the same thing-down shifted,then nothing. It needed a complete rebuild.The fluid was also very dark,almost black.

 

[Jack Flash]

you did say 4 X 4...could be a bad transfer case.

you need a 0-to-300 pressure guage to see if the tranny is actually pumping.

if you have fluid pressure, then I'd drop the pan and look for any debris....all this is assuming you have checked the fluid....

,
,

J...kinda like delivering a baby through email correspondence, too many variables...

 

[sktw8]

Thanks guys. I'll do some looking tomorrow and see if I can find a pressure gauge local, haven't seen one on any of the auto parts stores websites though. And when I get the numbers I'll post back up. I've been thinking about that transfer case too. I'm going to at least pull the electric shift motor off and make sure it isn't in neutral. Anything else I should check?

Jack

 

[rhauf]

You can buy a rebuilt a4ld for about $750 online... i'd just do that.. be good as new (better actually) and last forever.

 

[tuckman]

You can buy a rebuilt a4ld for about $750 online... i'd just do that.. be good as new (better actually) and last forever.

Where?

 

[zjrog]

I rebuilt my A4LD last spring for $400 or so in parts. But I also did the work myself. Depends how handy you are. I never rebuilt a transmission before this one...

 

[skeewood]

Jack - have you found anything out lately of a revealing nature. Your experience is extremely similar to mine and anything you found out would add insight. Thanks