My truck is slipping and shuddering when I start moving or when it shifts. Is there any way to tell if it is the converter or the tranny?

Russ

 

Year/model/engine/transmission type? Have you checked the fluid level?

 

1992 ford f-150 4.9L 2wd E4OD... Fluid is red up to level and doesn't smell yet

 

Sounds like worn friction discs in the clutch packs.

 

The E4OD is 100% electronic controlled. Before tossing in the towel or blindly replacing parts, check for codes. It could be as simple as a faulty MLPS or a bad connection to the solenoid pack.

 

how do I check codes on an old vehicle like this?

 

Warm up the engine and transmission then follow this: Ford Fuel Injection » How To Run a Self-Test

Or purchase one of these: Amazon.com: Equus 3145 Ford Digital Code Reader: Automotive

Your truck should display 3 digit error codes: Ford Fuel Injection » 3 Digit Self-test Codes 111-171

When running the tests the first set are called Key On-Engine Off (KOEO). If there are no faults a System Pass code of 111 will be displayed twice (111 pause 111). The next set of codes that may be displayed are called Continuous Memory. These codes are a historical log of anything that has triggered a code since the last clearing of the codes or removal of power such as removing a battery cable.

That is a good place to start. There is another set of tests referred to as Key On-Engine Running (KOER). This is a set of tests run on various sensors and also required input from the user.

Right now you need to see if there are any KOEO or CM codes.