Need help with Explorer

[Locruid]

Ok first a quick background. I'm highly familiar with Nissan, 4th Gen Camaro, Durango but know next to nothing about Explorer


My Mother-In-Laws`1997 Explorer started having some issues last month. She puts it in Park but it doesn't actually go in park (will sometimes roll). Overdrive light is flashing (which I know means theres a code about the transmission) but other than that has been working fine......until today. She was going home and above 35 the transmission kept "slipping". I asked her to pull the dipstick and let me know if it smells "really bad" She stated it smells like Oil nothing "Burnt" and looks Pink-Reddish (lol).

It goes into gear just fine but she can't get above 35.


Now my first thought is the cable is out of whack. She did say the needle is just before "P" when she puts it in park, so I'm thinking the transmission in "D" might be in a partial limbo state.


Or is there a different issue I'm not aware of? Trying to help her 200 miles away cause her other kids who live near her are being *****.

Thanks everyone! O and if theres an adjustment can someone point me in a direction so I can translate it to Layman's terms for her

 

[PopRichie77]

The indicator is a separate adjustment inside the dash. You need to check the lever at the transmission for proper engagement or location. If it's a 4x4 the transfer case may be in low range and have a problem. Get the code read, just guessing at this point. She really needs to take it to a shop.

 

[Locruid]

The indicator is a separate adjustment inside the dash. You need to check the lever at the transmission for proper engagement or location. If it's a 4x4 the transfer case may be in low range and have a problem. Get the code read, just guessing at this point. She really needs to take it to a shop.

Yea thanks. I agree it's mostly guess work. Her husband died last month (my father-in-law) and she's having troubles making ends meet as it is. Wish I could help her but my budget is pretty thin myself lol.

I might have to just head down this weekend and see what I can find. I might send her to Autozone to get the codes read at least