Transmission Shift Problem

[TheQuest01]

My transmission takes 4-5 seconds to engage when going from R to D. Shifting from P to D is normal...Shifting from N to D is normal. When transmission is operating temperature and you back up and then drop it into D directly from R it takes 4-5 seconds to engage. If while waiting you step on the gas it will engage and of course jerk forward. Shifting through all gears in D is normal and very smooth. Transmission fluid appears to be full. I have a 2000 Explorer XLT. Any ideas???
JimElliott01@msn.com

 

[Billy177]

what color is teh fluid is is supposed to be marronn if it is not have it flushed

 

[TheQuest01]

Thanks...while fluid is original after 60K, it appears to be fine and not burned. Spoke to reputable tranny shop nearby who were all puzzled. The only answer they could think of 'might' apply would be a wearing forward clutch plate. This is their last guess though cuz' of the young age of the vehicle and mileage. They will know better once they drop the oil pan and look to see if any excessive clutch dust is there. Last resort due to cost

 

[TPLYNCH]

There are TSB's regarding the 5R55E with loose valve bodies. May be simple problem like that. And at 60K, I'd do a full flush and filter change on the tranny...

 

[Opera House]

Might be too late to just tighten the bolts

If you drop the pan, inside there is a cover at the back with four bolts. This is the low/reverse servo. Sometimes the cover gasket blows out. There have been some pictures posted here that show it if you search. There is also a gasket under the seperator plate that can blow out. This requires dropping the valve body. Not that hard of a job if you feel comfortable with it - else about $800 to have it done. As the name implies the low/reverse sevo band operates in first and reverse. You are also having this problem in first although you don't notice it as much. Wait long enough and it will burn the band and the transmission will have to be dropped instead of just the valve body. One of the more common problems with the 5R55E. Any warranty left?

 

[TheQuest01]

Thanks....no warranty left at 60K...basic 3/36...pretty comfortable with tranny shop and will discuss with him and see