transmission problems

[BCGuy]

I have a 1997 Explorer 4.0 with 5R55E tranny. 187,000 kms.

I just does not seem to be shifting properly. Has a hard 2-3 shift and revs up on occasion before it completes this shift. There is also a squeek coming from the front of the transmission. Took it into to 2 places. 1 said I needed a rebuid and the other said there was nothing wrong. No codes showing up. Other than the shift problem, the vehicle runs and drives great. Downshifts seem to be fine and needs a transfer case mount.

When the pan was off at the first place I was shown some small brass shavings that were captured in the filter and a slight smell of burnt fluid. I do not think the filter was replaced.

I called the Ford dealer and they said that it is possible that the Tranny shop did not have the capability to detect all the codes.

Should I get a tranny flush done now or wait until Ford takes a look at the transmission. Cost $95 for them to take a look at it and diagnose the problem.

Please HELP!!!

 

[Glacier991]

First off that tranny needs clean reasonably fresh Mercon V fluid. Your problem could have a old fluid component to it. Also the EPC solenoid has a useful life of way less miles than you have.

Unless you have a flashing OD light, it is doubful there is a code stored.

Here's what I'd do if it was mine...

I'd add maybe 1/2 can of Trans-X (available at most auto stores). Don;t worry about any resulting overfill.

Drive it a week.

Have the trans flushed, and a new filter added. (I only use things like Trans-X briefly before a flush or full fluid changeout - one exception being Lubegard, which I recommend for use at anytime).

If the symptoms persist, I'd have a new EPC solenoid and TCC solenoid added to the trans valve body.

Short of a band adjustment, that is about the most you can do without delving deeper into the trans.

(Instead of adding a new EPC and TCC you might consider having a rebuilt Valve body installed in lieu.)

Let us know what you do and how it works.

 

[BCGuy]

tranny problems

What about the shavings in the transmission? Is that normal?

Thanks for the info. Much appreciated.

 

[BrooklynBay]

The shavings are usually from a thrust washer. Your transmission has updated torrington bearings, but still has some thrust washers.

 

[BCGuy]

Thanks guys. I will try this.

Will post with results.

 

[BCGuy]

Well I comletely flushed the transmission and then repalced the filter. Still having a hard 2 - 3 shift and transmission just doesnt feel right. The engine seems like it is working hard (if that makes any sense). The transmission is not slipping. I have it booked to go into the shop on June 19/07.

Anyone have any advice ot thoughts.

Thanks.

 

[BCGuy]

I forgot to say. The hard 2 - 3 shift takes place only about 50% of the time.

 

[BrooklynBay]

There are a lot of threads about the 2-3 shift flare. Start with the one which is a sticky at the top of this section for more information.