slipping shift

[big_guy]

Once again hello to you all.

The '98 XLT, 2wd, 4.0 SOHC I mentioned in my hello post has a slipping shift issue. I had the tranny flushed with some friction additive...uh...added rolleyes. The filter is new. I know the only fix for this is probably a tranny rebuild but I have a few questions first.

What tranny came in these things? I am mostly a GM guy and havn't messed with Fords much in the past 15 years.

What would the approximate cost be to rebuild this sucker? I know that will depend on the shop and region I live but I just need a loose estimate.

With the computer controls on these things, could I benefit from a shift improver kit such as the trans go kit? Are these kits even available for these trannys?

 

[NHale623]

When does it slip (every gear change, or just sometimes)? How many miles on the transmission? How often has the transmission been serviced? Is the fluid burnt?

To answer your questions, I believe the transmission in your truck is the 5R55E. The predominate problem with these transmissions is the EPC solenoid failing and separator gasket failure. Fortunately, the fix does not require removal of the transmission, just the valve body and separator plate.

You can purchase a rebuilt valve body for less than $300, or rebuild it yourself. Check out the 5R55E Valve Body Rebuild Diary for details. Even if it doesn't work, you're that much ahead on the rebuild if needed. I'm not saying this is your problem, but it might be.

To pay someone to remove, rebuild, and reinstall the transmission in your truck will run in the neighborhood of $2,000. As you noted, the cost may vary significantly depending on who does the work and what the rebuild consists of.

Good luck with your truck.

 

[big_guy]

When does it slip (every gear change, or just sometimes)? How many miles on the transmission? How often has the transmission been serviced? Is the fluid burnt?

slip: hard to tell. It definately hits some r's between a shift every now and then but other than that it is hard to tell when it shifts some times. I see one constant rpm while excelerating. This seems strang to me but I drive a manual. My wife gets the auto even though she is proficient with a stick. (that doesn't sound right)

Miles: 153,000

Serviced: Had a flush done two days ago.

Fluid: smelled burnt...light brown...that's why I had it flushed.

Trying to decifer what you said:

possible EPC (?) solenoid and seperator plate replacement warranted.

If I have it rebuilt, I will pull it and take it to the shop. I'm not into paying someone for work I can do myself.

thanks for the info.

these things seem much more complicated than your everyday TH350/400.

 

[dogfriend]

slip: My wife gets the auto even though she is proficient with a stick. (that doesn't sound right)

Yeah, you might want to rephrase that. :

The EPC (electronic pressure control) solenoid controls the line pressure (hydraulic pressure) in the transmission. If it is failing, you may not be getting enough pressure on one of the bands (for example) which is why the transmission is slipping.

My advice is to read the threads on the 5R55E valve body rebuild and to get a copy of the Ford Service Manual if you don't have one. You can usually find it for sale on Ebay or you may be able to download it here