Problem solved (i think) Transmission Range Sensor

[Rob&Robby]

So, i have been having this intermittent starting issue, and I have tested a range of things. Recently, I learned that I can crank the car right up by jumping a wire from the positive side of the battery to the 87A slot for the starter relay in the Power Distribution Box when the car acts up... This definately makes life easier when it acts up, but not a solution to the problem.... I also have a check engine light and my 4hi/4lo lights blink 6 times every so often, which may or may not be related... Although those last two problems I never mentioned. Upon doing LOTS of reading on here, and following 2000StreetRod's threads on "Starter/No Crank" procedures, i got all the way to one of the tests that is to probe the start relay slot 85 in the Power Distribution block and check for battery voltage when turning key to START... Well, my car acted up today, and I had my voltmeter and another set of hands to turn the key, so I checked it out, and I was only getting at best 4 volts... As per the instructions, I need to replace the Transmission Range Sensor. It doesn't happen all the time, but when it does, it's annoying. I surely hope that's it. But where can I get one. I have searched all over the internet, even a cpl places i found on here that said they sell them, but no luck..... Do I gotta go to the dealer?

 

[Turdle]

On a wild hunch--
I wonder if the shifter linkage bolts might be loose and causing your issue--

Check this thread-

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=219144&highlight=bolt+floor

 

[Rob&Robby]

Now that i feel like i could almost write a book, or at least a chapter on this, I think i found the problem....... I crawled under the EX today to get a closer look at the trans range sensor and the shift motor on the transfer case. My intention was to separate the connectors and clean them. What i found is that it appears the transmission range sensor was recently replaced, if not a complete tranny rebuild. I say this because of a paint pen mark on the range sensor across the mounting bolt. As if to mark it in case someone else tampered with it.....

At any rate, the plastic clip on the sensor that snaps into the connector is broken off, and the connector was very loose on there. I sprayed it with Electrical Connector Cleaner, let it air dry, then applied some dielectric grease, reconnected it and zip tied into place. I haven't driven it yet, but hopefully this is it. It was VERY loose

I did the same cleaning process to the shift motor connection, with the exception of the zip tie. but i still have no 4 low. At least the light didn't come on when i moved the selector there. I was exhausted, and called it a day. It appears the shift motor was rebuilt, or replaced at some point. It doesn't look new by any means, but the wires are zip tied together, and i noticed that was part of the instructions in a "rebuilding shift motor" thread on this site. From the factory they are wrapped in black plastic conduit.

anyways, any words of wisdom, tips, suggestions, etc??

 

[Rob&Robby]

Now I am done (hopefully) with the one problem, I moved on to searching for the 4 LO problem, and yes.... I admit it.... I am a moron....


I didn't know it had to be in Neutral with foot on brake to switch into 4 LO.... I went back out to the truck, and it worked perfectly. :


:exp:

 

[scarletgem]

it happens to all of us

have a great weekend.