1998 Ford Explorer 4.0 SOHC 2WD Lost reverse

[Peyuhz]

Hello everyone!
I am new on this forum, but expecting to get some advice concerning my issue.

While reversing into my driveway I heard a loud gong noise and lost reverse immediately. The sound was as if something had broken. Maybe as if a pin or teeth would snap and the car neutralized.
Since then, it won't take reverse again. It runs perfectly forward.
I bought the SUV with 214k miles. I drove it from California to Florida loaded with tools and personal effects. Put the first 3k miles on it. I drove around in Florida another 20k miles always with mechanic tools on board. I drove from Florida to Texas last August, and now it has 240k miles.
The truck is always loaded with tools, which could fluctuate between 500-800 pounds.

Looking forward to getting some help diagnosing and fixing this Problem. This is my work car and I do not possess a second vehicle.
Thanks for your help!

 

[Mbrooks420]

Is the OD light flashing when driving?

 

[wollimann]

Hello everyone!
I am new on this forum, but expecting to get some advice concerning my issue.

While reversing into my driveway I heard a loud gong noise and lost reverse immediately. The sound was as if something had broken. Maybe as if a pin or teeth would snap and the car neutralized.
Since then, it won't take reverse again. It runs perfectly forward.
I bought the SUV with 214k miles. I drove it from California to Florida loaded with tools and personal effects. Put the first 3k miles on it. I drove around in Florida another 20k miles always with mechanic tools on board. I drove from Florida to Texas last August, and now it has 240k miles.
The truck is always loaded with tools, which could fluctuate between 500-800 pounds.

Looking forward to getting some help diagnosing and fixing this Problem. This is my work car and I do not possess a second vehicle.
Thanks for your help!

Maybe the reverse band has broken or the reverse sprag is slipping. Both most common problems with high mileage.
Unfortunately the reverse band is located at the inside end of the transmission. Bad information, i know.

broken reverse band

 

[Mbrooks420]

You’ll know if you drop the pan. The broken band strut will be in there.

 

[twest94]

Maybe the reverse band has broken or the reverse sprag is slipping. Both most common problems with high mileage.
Unfortunately the reverse band is located at the inside end of the transmission. Bad information, i know.

broken reverse band
View attachment 451049

My 99 also blew its reverse band, plan for a rebuild.