Ford Explorer Transmissions: Problems!!
Question: My 1996 Ford Explorer transmissions is acting up. I was driving and noticed that the Overdrive light was flashing. The transmission was operating perfectly and if the OD light was not flashing, I would have no idea that I had a problem. When I turned the truck off and restarted the light would go out.
Thanks in advance,
Martin
Also when the light is out and I press the OD button I feel it working as it did when I bought the truck new. This flashing continued so I had the code P0741 pulled from the computer. Since there was no drive ability problem, I flushed the transmission through the radiator transmission cooler and installed a TCC electronic solenoid and a new filter and gasket.
I road tested the vehicle and it shifted great as before and then the OD light started flashing again. Any suggestion?
Suggestion: A. There may be several reasons for this problem. First, Ford has issued a TSB (technical service bulletin) on this problem. It has to do with a transmission oil pump defect and repair procedure.
Article No.: 97-22-4
Date: 10/27/97
Transmission – A4LD, 4R44E/4R55E, 5R55E – Torque Converter Slip – Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 628 Or P0741 Stored In Memory
Ford:
1985 to 1993 Mustang
1987 to 1988 Thunderbird
Lincoln-Mercury:
1988 Cougar
Light Truck:
1985 to 1990 Bronco II
1985 to 1997 Ranger
1987 to 1997 Aerostar
1991 to 1997 Explorer
ISSUE:
Some vehicles may experience excessive torque converter slippage, torque converter not engaging, or Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) 628 or P0714 stored in memory. This may be caused by damage to the fluid pump support seal and/or to the groove on the pump where the seal is located.
ACTION:
Inspect the fluid pump seal for damage. Refer to the following Service Procedure for details.
SERVICE PROCEDURE:
1. Follow normal diagnostic procedures as listed in the appropriate Service Manual.
2. Inspect the fluid pump support for damage. If damaged, also inspect the fluid pump support seal groove on the pump.
3. If the groove is damaged, replace the pump.
4. If the groove is not damaged, replace the fluid pump support seal with a redesigned Seal (F77Z-7L323-AA). Refer to Figure 1.
5. Do not replace the torque converter unless it is damaged or fails the criteria listed in the appropriate Service Manual and/or refer to TSB 96-26-12.
Tech data Information courtesy of AllDATA
This is something I recommend having a Ford Dealer do since they have the experience with it. Depending on the mileage and overall condition of your transmission, if and when this occurs will help you decide if fixing your transmission is worth it over replacing it. In most cases, if your car is older and has lots of miles on it, you may save time and money and cure your problem by buying a used transmission or rebuilt transmission as an option.
Realistically speaking, once a transmission wipes out the pump, and more importantly other areas of the transmission, repairs are not a viable option. If you are in this exact situation and need some counseling, call GotTransmissions.com at 866-320-1182 and speak with a member of our staff about which replacement transmissions may be in your best interests.
