New Owner of a '04 Explorer with no reverse

[dallas_95gt]

I've been a long time Ford Ranger owner, but sold it several years ago. After driving a car for a while, I decided it was time to have some room again. I picked up a 2004 Ford Explorer, 4wd, V6 and around 112K for a bargain price, knowing reverse is not working.

I've done a lot of searching on here, and have came to conclusion that I'll try changing the solenoid block, which should be here today. Forward gears work perfectly, all gears are there. I do have a SES light, which I will run later today. OD light is not flashing though. As far as reverse, it will back up on level ground. But on a hill, it will make a grinding sound and a bang but will not back up.

Does a new solenoid block sound like a good start? I'm planning on doing this project tomorrow, hoping not to find any chunks of metal in the pan! I will be using Mercon V for fluid, and will change the filter while I'm there. Am I missing anything else?

 

[pet575]

That does not sound like a solenoid issue to me. First thing I'd do is make sure it is not low on fluid.

 

[Produce Man]

Sounds like the reverse band. Mine needed a new reverse band, the tab on it was broken off. Unfortunatly the band is first part to go in, last to come out. I had that and the other bands replaced along with a Transgo improvement kit put in, about $1300.

 

[dallas_95gt]

Went ahead and changed the solenoid block out, being I had it. Unfortunately, the problem still exist. Reverse engages, and will coast in reverse, but if you gas it or attempt a hill (like my driveway....) it will rev up. Forward gears still working perfect. Any other things to try? I'm tempted to get a junkyard transmission and be done with it. If not, I might just see how long this transmission last before it shells out completely.