2003 Explorer Sport with 5r55e, No 3rd Gear

[Stenrick]

Hello All,

I've been lurking on this forum for a while now, and I have a problem that I haven't really come across in here yet.

When I start out from a stopped position, the Explorer will shift from 1-2 without a problem.

Then it will over rev after shifting from 2-3. This isn't like a flare or slipping, it's like the gear isn't even there. It doesn't even feel like it tried to grab, the RPMs go up, and the speed starts dropping off until I let off the gas.

When I let off the gas it will shift from 3-4 and then 4-5 without issue, and continue on it's merry way.

There is no flashing O/D or CEL. I verified that my O/D light was working by turning the O/D on and off without issue, and the engine RPMs adjust accordingly.

I adjusted the intermediate band to 120 in/lbs, then 2 turns out.

So as far as I know that leaves either the servo, a bad solenoid (wouldn't that throw a code though?), or a blown gasket.

My question: Is there any other places that I need to look at for this problem?

Any help is appreciated.

 

[JK080]

I think you are on the right track, also check for a broken or loose bracket that holds the solenoids into the valve body. The solenoid in question is the number 2 one, its right next to the EPC solenoid.

 

[Stenrick]

Well, I dropped the pan and replaced the EPC (replaced due to the high mileage), the #2 solenoid (the possible culprit), and VB gaskets. I also took the time to adjust the bands one more time, in case I did that wrong (all my marks went right back to where they were originally, so that's out).

Anyhow, Now I have a stronger reverse, and a solid 1-2 & 4-5. However, 2-3 won't engage without letting off the gas. I'm beginning to think that I'm looking at a Servo bore issue. It's still not throwing a code, but that is probably because I'm letting off the gas when I expect the shift so it doesn't see the over-rev.

It's not trying to shift until 3K on the tach, which I think is about 500 later than what it should be, isn't it?

Any other ideas?