Proper EPC orientation???

[Spuddy]

I've started to close up after doing the VB rebuild, which included the Ford mods (including the updated solenoid retainer clamp), new EPC and TCC, most of the Superior shift kit, the Viton D-rings and a new gasket for the low/reverse servo, and a custom-fab drain plug. After installing the pressure riser, I noticed that the EPC was not right at 6 o'clock like the TCC and shift soleniods, but more like 5 o'clock (cconnetor/tabs tilted about 15-20 degrees inboard instead of vertical) and it was free to rotate in its' bore.

IS THIS NORMAL???
Or did I not manage to install the solenoid retainer clamp properly? I did tighten the clamp bolt to the proper torque spec...

A quick reply would be VERY much appreciated as I REALLY NEED to get this back on the road tomorrow...

PS - I put the pan back on and started to torque the bolts already, but still need to finish torquing them and then reconnect my front drive shaft, so I'd rather not have to drop the pan again - its a ROYAL PITA with that damn cat in the way on the '98...

And, yes, I have read the ENTIRETY of the Diary (at least 2x, first few pages more like 9x) and the Stairway.

 

[rickybobby]

IIRC mine rotated freely after i replaced it, and it worked fine until i got around to replacing the trans, There should be an o-ring on the solenoid and as long as that is in good shape you should be fine

 

[rickybobby]

and if you arent sure, it would be a good idea to drop the pan and remove, inspect, and reinstall before you button it up and add fluid

 

[Spuddy]

Thanks for the quick reply.

I was afraid somebody was gonna tell me to go back in, but I guess better now than after it's full of fluid...

Just checked my old EPC - no o-rings on that, but it does have a slot that looks like it's supposed to engage the clamp...

I guess I know what I'm doin' towmorrow...

Thanks!

 

[2000StreetRod]

O rings

My ATSG 5R55E manual shows O rings on the four shift solenoids but no O ring on the EPC or TCC solenoids. The EPC solenoid is a variable force style (VFS) electro-hydraulic actuator combining a solenoid and a regulating valve. That may be why it has no O ring. "CAUTION: The solenoid clamp must be installed in the TCC and EPC solenoid grooves, shift solenoid pockets and the No. 204 plug."

 

[Spuddy]

When all else fials, read the instructions...

Thanks for the quick replies fellas!

Needless to say, since I wasn't sure, I went back in, despite the PITA problem...

And, in fact, all was good! Looks like thie EPC normally sits at about 5 o'clock. The clamp was properly engaged in the slot, and there is around plus or minus 10 degrees play from there. Really glad I went back in to have another look at it. Here's a close-up diagram from the Service Manual showing the EPC sitting 15 degrees off vertical:

Buttoned everything back up, and results are very good, but not qute 'like new.' Then I remebered that I neglected to disconnect the battery! The computer still thinks the tranny is messed up...

Disconnected now and waiting to drain... I'll report back wha'ppens.

 

[Spuddy]

Manual 1st and 2nd a little Mushy

Well, tranny seems to be much improved and now remembers that it has a manual first gear! But, I don't like the way is 'mushes' down into 1st, and both manual 1st and 2nd are a little mushy under acceleration, not nice and solid like it is in Drive. Can't chirp a tire pulling out in either manual 1 or 2, but really hooks up nicely in Drive. Seems stange to me..

But, I'm still pretty happy with the results of the VB rebuild.