First post here, I recently acquired a 2001 WD XLT w 5.4 power, and am fixing some issues. Got the AC suctioned, sealed and working, detailed in and out, new tires/wheels, changed fluids/filters etc. Still need to do manifold(s) and repair column shifter cable link. I have to use the loose shifter cable, and count detents to drive truck-anyone have repair suggestions? Was told that a plastic piece in column was broken, but was replaceable. I have not yet fully examined the linkage, and do not have a manual yet. need to search for a diagram-but havve no links yet.

Possible the linkage is causing the transmission to act a little funny? I know with my 200 4R and 700R4 trans linkages was crucial, particularly TV adjustment, but I do not believe the column in this Ford has any effect like on those GM's. When I slide the cable to R or any forward gear, the engine revs a little more than it ought, and hesitates several seconds more prior to engaging. Shifts feel a little soft-but not like slipping. I'd like to firm it up shifting if possible.
Truck has 175 thou on the clock, trans was "fully rebuilt" at 100k. Previous owner (acquaintance of some years) tells me there was an electric switch that cost $100 he did not have replaced, and this is why the transmission feels a little funny. It pulled an 8,000 lb loaded trailer for me through sand without any problems, and runs through the gears at highway speeds well. 4wd works well, and aside from a possible u joint thunk the driveline seems sound so far. The very noisy exhaust-as well overworked computer unable to map the fuel correctly is causing some confounding factors, and I realize that I need to correct that and any smog/vacuum lines and sensors first, as well fetch the OBD engine codes.

What part in the transmission would this electronic control be? Is it replaceable without pulling trans out? Previous owner claims it is replaceacble with only a pan drop...but cannot tell me name of the part.

Thanks in advance for helping out this recovering Chevoholic!

 

You went over a lot of stuff.
Get the linkage repaired first then see what the trans does.
The trans is fully electric control.
The TRS or trans range selector has to be in position to tell the PCM what gear and how to handle shifting.
If there is an electrical issue with solenoids it will be reported as a code by the PCM.
There is no TV function.
The trans has a pressure control solenoid (EPC) that is opened to gate fluid pressure the rest of the functions.
There may or may not be an issue until you get the linkage properly in place.
Good luck.

 

Tky Bluegrass. I also need to get the manifolds removed/gaskets etc to be able to hear, and to rule out confounding computer related issues which may exacerbate hesitation. I purchased the shifter plunger and shift tube as well as bushings for column. tearing into that tonight, lol hope i don't find too many extra screws and nuts!