Just bought a '99 XLT, having issues.

[tenajp8]

I purchased a 99 explore XLT about 3 weeks ago. I feel really stupid because Im pretty mechanically inclined, but failed to check some things. I have the chiming problem which i already posted, thanks to those who helped. A week ago i was driving in town and as the rpm's went up to 3000 rpm, where it usually shifts, it spiked up to 4000 rpm and the rpm's went to normal. Then the O/D off light began to flash. I got to my destination and shut it off, When i headed back home it did not come back on. The spike in RPM's is still there, but the light has not come back on since then. Any ideas? Also, my cruise control does not work, the light comes on when you press coast but it does not hold speed. Is this an easy fix? Should I just cut my losses and sell it before something bad happens, or is this not that big of issue? Thanks for your time.

 

[Blazepet7]

Well i really dont know about the rpms or the o/d light but did the prevvious owner go for the cruise control recall if not you may be able to bring it to a dealer and have tham se if thats the problem while getting the recall taken care of...it says something could short out and catch fire even when parked with car off..

 

[Sams01XplrSprt]

welcome

 

[JHC's Explorer]

There is a very good possibilty that you have a problem with the transmission, could be as simple as a leaking valve. Very common problem and not that expensive to fix. A trusted transmission shop should be able to drop the pan, check everything out, replace the valve, and re-service the transmission. $300 at most, you could do it yourself for around $150 or less. Cruise control is subject to a recall/TSB where they disconnect a plug located at the master cylinder. Look under your hood at the master cylinder and see if there is a diaphragm switch that has tape wrapped around it. Nearby there should be a wiring connector that is also wrapped in tape. If this is the case, you are like millions of other Ford owners awaiting a wiring harness that contains a fuse to be installed between the 2 components. If the connector is still properly installed, then you have other issues with the cruise control. I'd say it would be premature to punt, and sell, without further diagnosis of your problems.

After letting Ford disconnect my cruise control, I promptly went back out and undid the tape and plugged it back up. I'll be damned if I'm going to drive around for 6 months without cruise control because of Ford's screwup. Ford has to disconnect it to try and eliminate being sued if the switch causes a fire. I may makeup my own wiring harness with an inline fuse from Autozone, until Ford sends me a note that they have the part available for install. Then I'll restore the harness and switch to the way the dealer left it and take it in for completion of the recall/TSB.