2002 E Bauer Explorer Soft Transmission Shifting

[Dunwood]

This is first my first post to this forum, great resource! 2002 EB Explorer 2WD V6. I used the search function and didn't find exactly what I needed in the way of information.

Our vehicle shifts softly. I'm pretty gentle with the accelerator because when I drive it, the wife and kids are inside (its the wife's vehicle). Vehicle has been shifting soft for quite sometime (30,000 miles). With a gentle foot the trans doesn't shift fast. Its due for a fluid and filter change and it doesn't drive any differently since the last time I had the fluid/filter changed, at least its being consistent. Thankfully this vehicle doesn't get abused with lots of hot hard miles, mostly a local kid fetcher. We do live on a hill but most of the driving is short. We're up to 73k.

I'm going to check the throttle positioning sensor first. Any other areas that I ought to keep watch? Its going into a very reputable trans shop for a fluid/filter change.

Thank you in advance.

 

[Glacier991]

Welcome to the forum.... let me move this to the transmission forum where you will find MUCH more info and get broader exposure.

I'm always a little confused on when and where the 5R55W started replacing the 5R55E. Can you tell me what kind of trans you have ? (Or can someone else?)

 

[Dunwood]

Its a 5R55W (had to go out and look at the owners manual).

 

[Glacier991]

Ah... the first thing I would recommend is that you change the fluid and replace the solenoid block.

Where older transmissions has separate solenoids to do everything under the sun in a new electronic controlled tranny, the W started a new trend... putting them ALL together in one unitary assembly, known as a solenoid block.

The Electronic Pressure Control Solenoid (controls pressures which control shift feel) has long been a problem child in the 5R55 series, and this has not changed with the W.

The block can be changed DIY, with an inch pound torque wrench available to monitor final tightening pressures. A new gasket is advisable too.

WILL it fix your problem? I cannot say absolutely, but I suspect it has better than a 50/50 chance. Price, less install? about $350.

ps... while you are at it, retorque the entire set of bolts holding the VB in place too.... better yet replace THAT gasket as well.