2-3 shift flare(again)

[albi1cnobi1]

I am experiencing the ever dreaded 2-3 shift flare. I've done my research, read all the threads so I'm pretty sure I know how to proceed on this. I'm going to pick up a rebuilt valve body with all upgrades and new solenoids. I've been dealing with the flare for about 6 months now without issue, but now occasionally I get a flashing OD light and lose overdrive. If I stop, shut off the truck and restart it goes away. My question is, does anyone think this could be related. My code reader doesn't read tranny codes so before I find someone to read them, I thought I would ask. Appreciate any help you all can throw my way.

 

[PopRichie77]

When the OD light flashes a trans code is stored in the computer, the two may be related but each may be a separate problem. Restarting resets the computer till it again sees a trans problem, then it flashes the OD light, it also go into limp mode. Restarting does not remove the stored code. Start by getting the trans code read. If the rebuilt valve body doesn't solve the problem, then there is internal leakage or damaged parts. Be sure to use an INCH lb torque wrench on the valve body bolts and torque in 2 or 3 steps to 90-95 inch lbs in the proper sequence. Code first.

 

[albi1cnobi1]

Do auto zone and advance read tranny codes? If not I'll need to find someplace to read them.

 

[PopRichie77]

Some do and some don't, all you can do is ask.

 

[albi1cnobi1]

Thanks. I'll check.

 

[albi1cnobi1]

A little update. I didn't have much luck finding someone to read my tranny codes, so I broke down and bought a code scanner/reader. I picked up the Innova model 3150. Very nice unit. It reads DTC's for engine, tranny, ABS, and SRS for most makes and models. It also comes with software to link the scanner to your computer that tracks repairs, offers tech tips, and gives estimated repair costs(and much more). It lists for $358.00 on their site - http://equus.com/Product/3150/ABS_CanOBD2-Diagnostic-Tool, but I found it for $148.00 on amazon with free shipping. O.K. the public service announcement is over. Here's the scoop. I had already ordered a rebuilt valve body with all the upgrades, and while scouring the ATSG manual for the 5r55e I found that the overdrive drum speed sensor(ODS) can cause the flare as well. I picked one up($25) so when my v.b. arrives I'll install that as well. When I read the codes, the only tranny codes I got were P0732 and P0735. Which are respectively Gear 2 incorrect ratio and Gear 5 incorrect ratio. I'm also going to adjust the bands while I'm at it. My question to the tranny guru's out there is do these codes necessarily mean there is another problem internally with the tranny? I'm going to do all these repairs anyway and hope for the best, just wanted some opinions. Thanks for any help.

 

[albi1cnobi1]

Anyone...

 

[Sedition]

I have a question for you. Does your tranny "Engine brake?" What I mean by engine brake is when driving at say 50 MPH, take your foot off the gas and shift down into the second range. Do the RPM's rise and cause your truck to slow down?

 

[albi1cnobi1]

Yes it does.

 

[Sedition]

Thats good, I was thinking may be you had busted clutch packs but if it engine brakes then I'd say they would be fine.

 

[albi1cnobi1]

I double checked this morning and the "engine braking" is working. The funny thing is when the overdrive light starts blinking, as far as I can tell it doesn't go into limp mode. It actually starts shifting fairly normal. A couple of times it did go into limp mode, at least I think it did. Shifted hard and no OD. Once the truck was turned off and back on all is well. My new valve body should bee here today. Here's hoping.

 

[Wills05xlt4x4]

Anyone...

Im no guru but I too have done a bit of research and your trans is 1,1+o/d(2),3,4,5+o/d
I would say an issue with those two gears indicates an overdrive band slipping or some other overdrive issue...
Hope this helps you,
-Will

 

[albi1cnobi1]

Thats along the lines of what I was thinking. But I wasn't sure of the apply sequence of the bands, thanks for the info. I am not able to adjust my bands because the threads on the adjustment studs are so rusted that I can't back off the lock nut. I picked up new studs and lock nuts from Ford and will replace the rusted ones when I do the v.b. So with the new v.b. and the bands being adjusted properly I'm hoping that solves my problem.

 

[albi1cnobi1]

Well, I installed my new(rebuilt) valve body today as well as new band adjustment studs/lock nuts. I bought it from www.800700tran.com in Tampa Fl. They were quite helpful and offer an unlimited mile warranty on their valve bodies. All went well. Upon removal I found that the vb gasket was torn and blown out in 2 places. The new 1 has the bonded gaskets so I feel better about that not happening again. The new vb came with new solenoids and all the recommended upgrades. I adjusted the bands, installed the vb, refilled with fluid and the test drive was perfect! Everything worked flawlessly. Also installed a drain in the pan while it was off. Should make for a much cleaner job in the future if the pan has to come off. I'll keep you all posted as to how things are going in the next few weeks.