2000 XLT ext cab 4.6 4x4 auto
Having a couple of problems in below freezing weather when temps are below 30 deg F.
1. I have the usual P/S whine, but when starting up a cold engine, the whine is extremely loud and the motor won't stay running. It starts and immediately dies. I have to give it a little gas to keep it running. It only takes a few seconds until the whine dies down, then it idles fine. Should I just replace the P/S pump or is there something else I need to look at?

2. Again, with a cold engine, when I start driving, the OD light on the column shifter flashes. It flashed for quite a while. The tranny worked fine, though. No problems shifting. I was told that I have to have the dealer read the code and it can only be done when its flashing. Is this true? I'd rather not spend the $$ if its something I can take care of myself. I did change the tranny filter and that helped some. Now the light flashes for about 2-3 minutes then it goes away.

Like I said, these problems are only on days when its below freezing and once the truck is warm, everything works fine. Any help would be appreciated.

 

You may want to check and make sure all of the pulleys turn free and smooth. Pay special attention to the idler pulleys as these have bearings that go bad eventually and show their noise more when cold out.


For the stall out condition, it sounds like the idle control valve is carboned up. You can try cleaning it or if that does not work replace it. It would be a good idea to clean your throttle body as well.


As for the transmission light flashing, I don't know enough about it to recommend anything other than getting it scanned for codes.

 

You were right, it was the IAC valve. I replaced it and cold morning start ups are fine now. I haven't done anything with the tranny, but I haven't seen any lights in a few days. I'll keep watching for it.

 

Update Transmission issue - About 4 months ago I ended up getting P0705 code (transmission range sensor circuit malfunction). I unplugged the harness to the sensor and a couple of the terminals were corroded. I cleaned them up and applied some dielectric grease. Cleared the code and all is well.