Tranny fluid and various mod questions

[O2Thief]

I'm planning a trip to VA for the holidays and would like to make sure everything is up to par on the 97 X I purchased in September. Is it possible to change the tranny fluid myself like on the 94-95 V8 mustangs which includes draining the torque converter? What fluid do you'll recommend? I used Mercon/Dextron 5 in the mustang. Should I try a synthetic, how about a friction modifier additive?

I have plans to install a K&N conical eventually as well as a new exhaust. Any recommendations along the lines of headers? Can I use the shorties like for a Mustang w/ GT40P heads or will it interfere with the steering column?

My final question pertains to the persistent Code PO455. I have already replaced the gas cap with no improvement (the check engine light stayed off for two-three weeks after the install, then returned). Where are the sensors located and can I by-pass them to keep the code from returning? Is one of the HVAC valves underneath the battery, b/c occasionally when I get out of the X, I smell gasoline fumes?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Robert]

You shoulc be able to do a full fluid flush using your auxillary tranny cooler lines. I did on my '97 SOHC. I do not believe your transmission has a torque converter drain plug. If it does, then try that first. If not do some searches here for tranny fluid changes.

Regarding your P0455; since you've eliminated the gas cap, another thing that can cause it is a bad canister vent valve. They run about $20. Basically when you first drive your Explorer after a cold start, after a pre-determined amount of time your fuel lines will be pressureized. After another predetermined amount of time a pressure reading will be taken. If your lines didn't hold pressure a P0455 will be set. The canister vent valve is the valve that closes off to maintain the pressure in your lines. When it sticks open you will get a P0455 also accompanied by a fuel smell. I would start there. I believe it is mounted to the charcoal canister contraption above your spare tire on the driver's side. The valve is less than $30 at Autozone.

 

[O2Thief]

Robert,
Is there anyway to clean the valve/check it to be certain. Perhaps blow through it like the pcv valve? I assume I have to remove the spare tire for this?

Thank you

 

[dogfriend]

The location of the Vapor Management Valve is under the battery tray, the same location that you mentioned smelling fumes from. It is possible to remove the battery tray so that you can get to it more easily. I would check the hoses to make sure you dont have a loose or cracked hose there if you smell fumes. If you have a leak, it would probably set the code as Robert described.

If your transmission calls out Mercon V, I would recommend using a fluid that meets the Mercon V spec. The only syn ATF that meets the Mercon V spec that Im aware of is AMSOil. It is pretty expensive though. I did the cooler line flush method that Robert mentioned so that I could replace the old ATF with the syn ATF.

 

[Opera House]

Vent valve on my 97 went bad

The one located under the spare tire to vent the canister. Mine was totally rusted out and stuck open. I got a P0442 (small leak) code because the screen was totally clogged with crud. I think the need to replace the valve will be obvious. Be careful of the plastic support, you won't get a new one with the valve. You can blow through it because the valve only closes when the power is applied to the solenoid. I couldn't find it anywhere but the dealer, $36. Even a Ford parts place couldn't figure out the part and sent me to the dealer. They might have changed this part in mid production because even the dealer kept looking.

If you drop the pan to change the filter, check the bolts on the valve body. I found all of mine loose on my 97 and there are numerous reports of blowing out valve body gaskets on the 5R55E. Loose bolts would explain that. These only tale about 9 ft-lb which isnt much. Thats a light hand twist. I think keeping the aditives fresh is more important than having full synthetic. Full synth V is hard to find.