No braking in first

[Hoppy]

HI guys,

I have a 2000 Ex, 4x4 with the 5R55E. When I shift to first I get no engine braking, but when hitting the accelerator it re-engages and accelerates, but when letting of the pedal it just coasts again without braking.

I've read something here before but cannot find anything on it.

Thanks

 

[dogfriend]

IIRC, that problem is caused by a leaking valve body gasket. I think the section that controls the coast clutch has the gasket blown out.

Take a look at the 5R55E rebuild diary. There is an upgraded valve body plate and gasket available from Ford. The parts are not expensive, but you have to remove and replace the valve body.

 

[robrike40]

Hoppy,
Did the valve gasket take care of your no 1st gear braking problem? I just discovered I have the same problem on my 98 Explorer this weekend while staying in a cabin a mile up on the side of a mountain. First day there all was fine, yesterday went to put it in 1 and no braking. I had about 50% efficiency on my brakes when I got to the bottom and the smell was strong. This AM leaving it worked with a cold engine for about 3 minutes and then went into neutral. I just had the transmission rebuilt about 25k ago. Maybe I blew out the valve gasket. Thick fluid cold kept it from seeping through??
No codes, ran the scanner on it. Never got a light and all shifts are fine. This is a 5r55e with the SOHC engine.
Thanks,
Rob

 

[Hoppy]

No, I didn't perform the fix. I can't say I will until I get major problems. Right now I can downshift into 2nd and it will slow me down, but not in 1st.

The transmission shifts fine still and took it on 1000 km trip back in late July. No problems, but that was all highway.

If I decide to change the trans fluid, I may perform the upgrade, but for now, I will just drive it.

 

[robrike40]

Hey,
Thanks for the reply. Mine is the same way, braking in 2 but none in 1. I drove 150 miles home on it with no light, etc. Shifts fine. I need to replace my rear transfer case seal and change my spark plugs in the next few months so I will probably tackle it then. Fluid is due for a change too. I have dropped the VB before when my transmission took a dump, I was trying the easy stuff first and then paid $1600 for a rebuild. Dropping it again should not be a problem, I dread the plugs more than anything though my collection of swivels and extensions has grown quite a bit since last time. Hopefully that will make it easier.

I will let you know what I find when I swap it. If you beat me to it, let me know what you discover is you don't mind.

Thanks,
Rob