I have a 97 F150 5.4 E4OD that is having slight transmission issues. I have researched this via forums and search engines in many contexts but cannot find a definitive answer.

Long story short - several months ago I was having hard shifting and after replacing the solenoid pack I lost 3rd and 4th gear with no change in the shifting problem. After a more in-depth diagnosis, I established that the ECM was the issue and I replaced it, gaining a smooth, powerful shift through 1st and 2nd, but still lacking 3rd and 4th gear.

While I was reading a thread on rebuilding the E4OD, the author mentioned an EPC check ball and spring under the solenoid pack. After further investigation, I discovered that there was supposed to be a small spring and a 1/4" steel check ball on the other side of the pack. I specifically do not remember putting any check ball in when I replaced the pack on my transmission, and I am surprised to have not seen it in the directions.

My question is - Is the lack of this check ball and spring the cause of my loss of 3rd and 4th gear? Any relevant information is appreciated,

Thanks

 

If this occured only AFTER you replaced the sol pack, then yes. I beleive it rolled out and you simply missed it. Very easy to do.

Try finding one to put in and try, maybe a local shop will sell it.

Also the E4OD needs to have DEX/MERC not suitable for mercon v applications. If you use mercon v as ford recommends, the tranny will have wierd shifts.

I only know priciples of operation on the 4r70w, I am a little behind on the e4od.

 

The ball and spring is under the separator plate, it cant fall out if you just removed the solenoid block.

I would put the old solenoid back in just to see if you get 3rd and 4th back, if not, a scanner would help, it would be helpful to see if the computer is trying to shift into 3rd and 4th.

Another easy area to look at is the MLPS switch, which a scanner would help here again.