97 Explorer Tranny problems

[mattswgn@mac.com]

I have a 97 Explorer with 125000 miles, started having problems with it a few weeks ago. First a loud whining sound when throttle closed and doing about 40 mph. Thought it was the IAC valve, replaced that, didn't help. When coasting, throttle closed doing 40+ mph rpm would go to idle. Thought I might have the dreaded valve body gasket problem. Dropped pan and replaced gasket although didn't see any problems. Then it started dropping out of gear when coasting, throttle closed 30+ mph. So I replace the VB with a rebuilt, no change. It has always shifted just fine going up through the gears, 1-4 & OD. The problem is after I reach a cruising speed and let off the throttle and then come back on with the throttle it's not in gear. Tonite I was only doing about 30 mph, let off the throttle, added throttle and no power, car won't drive at all. I pulled over and placed it in neutral, back into drive the car shifted fine from 1st thru 4th. Let off the throttle, no drive again. It also has started a racheting sound when I open the throttle and when I got home when I placed the shift lever in park. Stopped car, shut down, started up runs fine around block. What gives?

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! It sounds like the start of a failing torque converter. Try a band adjustment first. How does the fluid level look?

 

[mattswgn@mac.com]

Yeah, I did that when I was under the car doing the VB. Was afraid of that. Is it worth it to pull the tranny and just replace the torque converter or should I just get a rebuilt tranny.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Maybe you could rebuild the transmission yourself while it's out?

 

[mattswgn@mac.com]

I've never tackled an auto transmission, done a lot of engines and gear boxes. Is there a thread or can I get a book? I've seen kits listed for rebuilds but not sure what they include, looks like mostly gaskets and basic parts. Can you give me a direction to look, I'd appreciate it.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Check the links in # 69 in my list of useful threads. This website has an A4LD rebuild diary thread which was written by Glacier991. It's a sticky on the top of the transmission section where this thread is located.

 

[mattswgn@mac.com]

Thanx, I'll look at that.