Hello,
I have a 1997 Ford Thunderbird V8 with the standard 4-speed 4R70W automatic transmission. I just bought the car and it has a total of 51,800 miles on it. The day after I bought it I had the ATF filter and fluid changed. Big O Tires used Valvoline Maxlife ATF. My previous car was also a '97 TBird; they used the same ATF and it worked out fine.

The ATF fluid has the correct level, color, and smell. On a level surface when I am going 40 MPH and I release the accelerator, the car slows by a bit too much, almost as though the brakes are slightly being applied. When I am coasting or at a full stop and I press the accelerator, there is a slight, split second pause, then the car accelerates. When I am stopped and in Drive, the engine runs slightly rough and the transmission makes a slight turning noise. In Park, the engine runs smoothly.

My previous '97 TBird did not do this. Can someone tell me what the problem is? Is it a solenoid or a vacuum sensor?

 

There is no vacuum sensor, so you can eliminate that possibility. It sounds to me like you have low grade misfire in the engine. It is VERY common on the V8 engine in this car.

 

Mark,
thank you for your reply. How do I fix a low grade misfire for my 4.6L V8?

 

Ignition coils, spark plugs, and wires, if your engine has them. My '96 4.6L has wires, late model engines do not. I forget which year the wires were eliminated.