Aerostar won't shift when cold.

[chebucto]

Hey Everyone.

My 97 Aerostar won't shift when it's cold (below freezing) until it warms up about halfway, then seems to shift fine.

I've googled it and most people say "Take it to the shop, expect bad news".


Anyone have any Insight or experience?


thanks

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! How many miles does it have? The EPC solenoid might be showing its age if you have around 100K miles or more. The valve body gaskets contract when they are cold, and expand when they get warm. Loose valve body bolts could make the gasket problem noticeable.

 

[chebucto]

hey thanks, it's got about 200,000 kms (about 125,000 miles).

i'm not very tech savvy, but what you describe doesn't sound too catastrophic.

 

[BrooklynBay]

This photo shows the valve body, separator plate, and gaskets: https://www.wittrans.com/Schematic.aspx?Transmission=A4LD/4R44E/4R55E/5R55E&Schematic=5

Take a look at the sticky thread in the transmission section called the 5R55E valve body rebuild diary for more information.

 

[chebucto]

hey, all.

a mechanic told me a seal is going, thus leaking fluid and not providing adequate pressure until it heats up.


does anyone have any experience with Lucasoil Transmission Fix? from reading around it seems it could extend the life of my seals. but i'm a little scared to add some really thick goo to my transmission.

before i do anything i'll get the fluid and filter changed (i've been keeping it topped up) and see if that helps.

so i'm basically looking for peoples thoughts on Transmission Fix. good or no?

keep in mind that doing any $$$ work on the tranny is kind of out of the question since i bought the car for $1000.

 

[BrooklynBay]

The Lucas stuff might be good for a temporary fix. You will need to drop the pan, and inspect the valve body for a more permanent fix.