Tranny issues 06 mountaineer (possible solenoid pack)

[IloveGod]

Hey Ford family,

I recently bought my 06 mountaineer 4x4 about 3months ago. I was told it was having tranny issues and it may be due to low fluid, I should’ve asked more questions about the issue but you live and you learn.

The issues I’m having are: slow acceleration from stand still, high rpm in D gear + OD doesn’t work, I have to drive in 3rd to go over 20mph as if it was my D gear, and no power in reverse

I’ve had the check engine light scanned and it gave back the following codes: p0743, P0455,P0457,P0750,P0760,P0765.

I figured I needed to replace the solenoid pack, but when I checked under the hood the bulkhead connector was totally unhooked. Transmission shop stripped my t30 when trying to check the fluid {never told me they stripped it just said it was stuck } so I dropped the pan and there’s no unnormal debri in the pan.

My question is since the bulkhead connector was disconnected are those codes reflecting back to the solenoid unreliable? If so what may be my problem. Really trying to avoid a complete rebuild.

Ps, car drives great when it’s not coming from a complete stop or in reverse .

Thank you for reading,

 

[Bill MacLeod]

Couple things first:
1) Welcome to the site, enjoy your time here.
2) Add your engine and trans type to your signature, so we do not have to guess. (assume you have a V-6 with 5r trans)


Of the 6 codes post above, 2 are evap codes and the other 4 are all trans codes related to solenoid issues. It's possible that the loose connector could have triggered the codes.
What condition was the fluid in when you dropped the pan?
Did you change the filter, refill with correct fluid type to correct level and test drive?

 

[IloveGod]

Hey bill,

The fluid was red and smelt slightly burnt and about 6-7 quarts came out as I let it drain overnight night. I placed about 5 quarts of the same fluid back in bc I was frustrated about my drain plug being stripped. I’ve ordered a new filter, drain plug, and other parts to put new fluid in. I test drove it afterwards and it drove extremely well for a while, my D had great acceleration and was able to go over 20mph. My reverse even kicked in a little after gradually increasing the gas but it barely moved. Shortly it went back to slow acceleration in D and I have to drive in 3rd to go over 20mph, I’ll put new fluid and adjust to right level when the parts make it in. Check engine light is still on so I’m going to try and clear it and see if the same codes surface again . Waiting to order solenoid until I get feedback and praying for the best

 

[Bill MacLeod]

Issues you have now could be from low fluid level. I would proceed in the exact same manner as you intend. Possibly disconnect battery cables for 30 minutes to clear codes. (Or use your scan tool)
Mercon V is the correct fluid for your trans. Use that only.

 

[IloveGod]

Hey Bill,

My last part(new drain plug) I need to complete the fluid and filter swap is scheduled to be delivered today. I have 2 questions; will me using a ramp throw off the adjusting process since it won’t be level? Is there anything I can check for signs of a more serious problem other than debri in the pan while I’m down there?

 

[Bill MacLeod]

You really need for the vehicle to be close to a level position to be assured of proper fluid level. Maybe use any type of "jack" to lift the rear. (Please use jack stands)
Clean the pan of any clutch/band sludge with something like brake clean. Inside of trans pan needs to be spotless.
Don't throw out the old level tube. I believe the plug is 1/8" npt. Try to remove it with an extraction tool. Plugs are available at any auto parts supply store.

 

[Blackexplorer06]

Worn servo bores. It'll have to come out How many miles. These units are weak.

 

[IloveGod]

Hello all,

I’ve driven 500 miles since my fluid change, filter swap , and connecting the bulkhead connector to the solenoid pack. My acceleration in all my gears have improved drastically n all gears, only downside is reverse still doesn’t fully engage and after about a week or so from doing the job. When I go from park to drive or neutral to drive my drive acts as neutral and when it does engage from those starting points the rpm will cap off(won’t increase) and I’ll only be able to drive about 25mph without no increase . The only time drive acts as it should is when I transition from gears 3,2,or 1. As of lately I occasionally experience hardshifts and when I’m bumping stop signs it’ll give this surge type of kick in the transmission. Recently I went from park to the last gear on a cold start in quick motion out of curiosity what it would do and experienced a hard shift from hell that felt like three separate motions took place in a very uncomfortable way. From that point to when I start/drive my car I hear a thudding sound as the rpms increase. It’s not as bad when I change from certain gears but not in a particular fashion . Hoping a solenoid pack may be the culprit . I know a full replacement is an (last)option as well, but what do you all think? THANK YOU FOR READING. Praying for the best

 

[Blackexplorer06]

How many miles? As I posted before these transmissions are weak. Sounds to me like it's on it's last legs. When mine finally went out it filled the case with metal. A complete/total rebuild cost me nearly 3 grand.

 

[IloveGod]

The vehicle has 123,340 miles. I’m sure it’s a high possibility it may have to come out, just staying optimistic as possible while being rational. What signs did yours give before giving out?