Grinding noise from near transmission when shifting into R or overdrive off

[Koichi]

Hello from Japan.

I have 2000 xls model ( Japan only) 4.0l sohc 5r55e AT model, 177k miles on it.
Sometimes the loud grinding noise from near transmission for few seconds when overdrive “off” (push the OD button) or shifting R from D.

AT fluid and filter changed 3 times in these 10 years.

I drive 70km round trip every day to work and runs great!

Do you know what is the cause is?
Any comment and help would appreciate!!

 

[amj441]

Do you have 4wd or 2wd?

 

[Koichi]

4wd.
Pull the code P1804 for these years. Do you think that concerns with the noise?

 

[amj441]

4wd.
Pull the code P1804 for these years. Do you think that concerns with the noise?

If that is what the vehicle scan tool shows, I bet the transfer case is not fully disengaging 4wd. this can cause grinding in any gear.

P1804 is for the transfer case shift motor.

 

[Koichi]

If that is what the vehicle scan tool shows, I bet the transfer case is not fully disengaging 4wd. this can cause grinding in any gear.

P1804 is for the transfer case shift motor.

Thank you for your advise!
I have to get t-case shift motor!!

 

[amj441]

Thank you for your advise!
I have to get t-case shift motor!!

You can test your t-case motor by un bolting it. turn the car on, and use the 4wd switch, the motor should move if it is working. If it works, it may be an issue with the t-case

 

[C420sailor]

こにちは, ようこそ!

I used to live in Zama, in Kanagawa. My Japanese isn’t very good anymore, unfortunately.

Do not buy a shift motor yet. Do more diagnostics to make sure it is not a mechanical or electrical issue.

I would definitely check the transfer case, as is mentioned. You can remove the motor and check for operation. 4H is electronic only—the shift motor does not operate for 4H. It only operates for 4L—to go in and out of low range.

You can remove the motor and manually shift the transfer case for testing. Make sure you chock the wheels while shifting, as it is easy to put the transfer case in neutral and it may roll.

Another good test may be to put the 4WD switch in ‘Auto’, and then disconnect the shift motor from the electrical harness. This will leave the transfer case in high range, and it should be unable to attempt to shift into low range. If the grinding goes away, then you know that this problem is likely electrical in nature, or a failing shift motor.

The shift motor is controlled by the GEM (general electronics module). An erratic shift motor could be caused by a failing GEM, failing shift motor, or a short or open circuit in the wiring harness. This is why testing is important.

 

[Koichi]

You can test your t-case motor by un bolting it. turn the car on, and use the 4wd switch, the motor should move if it is working. If it works, it may be an issue with the t-case

Thanks for your help!

 

[Koichi]

こにちは, ようこそ!

I used to live in Zama, in Kanagawa. My Japanese isn’t very good anymore, unfortunately.

Do not buy a shift motor yet. Do more diagnostics to make sure it is not a mechanical or electrical issue.

I would definitely check the transfer case, as is mentioned. You can remove the motor and check for operation. 4H is electronic only—the shift motor does not operate for 4H. It only operates for 4L—to go in and out of low range.

You can remove the motor and manually shift the transfer case for testing. Make sure you chock the wheels while shifting, as it is easy to put the transfer case in neutral and it may roll.

Another good test may be to put the 4WD switch in ‘Auto’, and then disconnect the shift motor from the electrical harness. This will leave the transfer case in high range, and it should be unable to attempt to shift into low range. If the grinding goes away, then you know that this problem is likely electrical in nature, or a failing shift motor.

The shift motor is controlled by the GEM (general electronics module). An erratic shift motor could be caused by a failing GEM, failing shift motor, or a short or open circuit in the wiring harness. This is why testing is important.

こんにちは！！C420sailor,
My English isn’t good, either…

So were you in the Army? Zama base is near from my home town Yokohama.
Now I’m living in Zushi city, near Yokosuka naval base and Ikego US military housing area.

Question, during In this diagnostic, should I jack up my car or not?

Thanks for your help.

 

[C420sailor]

No, not required. But it may make working easier.

I was in the Navy, and was stationed at NAF Atsugi. I had a friend who lived in Zushi! My girlfriend’s family still lives near Yokosuka…in Kanazawa-bunko. We go a few times a year to visit. Maybe we will meet up and I can see your Explorer!

 

[Koichi]

No, not required. But it may make working easier.

I was in the Navy, and was stationed at NAF Atsugi. I had a friend who lived in Zushi! My girlfriend’s family still lives near Yokosuka…in Kanazawa-bunko. We go a few times a year to visit. Maybe we will meet up and I can see your Explorer!

It seems I’d jack up my car. Thank you for your advise.

Kanazawa-bunko!! I took route 16 from my work and passed the area yesterday!!

Let’s meet up someday!