I was looking thru the link at the top of the Ranger page at recall's and TSB's and found one that looks like a small problem I'm having. The number given was 01103 with the explainantion something like 'auto trans. flashing indicator when temps fall below 40 degrees'. This was in the 2001 Ranger list. Can anyone tell some particulars on this TSB? Thanks very much.

 

Article No. 01-10-3

FORD: 2001 RANGER

ISSUE:
Some vehicles equipped with a 3.0L engine and 5R44E transmission may exhibit a flashing Transmission Control Indicator Lamp (TCIL) and/or a delayed 1-3 shift with Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P0733. This DTC may be set when cold below 4*C (40*F) and during light throttle accelerations after start up. This may be caused by the calibration of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).

ACTION:
Follow normal diagnostic procedures and verify condition. Repair all non-related DTCs. If the condition is valid, reprogram the PCM to the latest calibration level. Refer to the following Service Procedures for details.

SERVICE PROCEDURE
Follow normal diagnostic procedures and verify the condition.

- If the condition is valid, first repair all DTCs that may be present.
- Determine if the condition is caused by an internal transmission component and repair as required.
- Clear all DTCs and validate the repair.
- If the condition is still present or returns after repair, the PCM must be reprogrammed. Refer to the following PCM Calibration Information Chart.


PCM CALIBRATION INFORMATION
Application / Old Part Number (-12A650-) / Tear Tag / New Part Number (-12A650-) / Old Calibration / New Calibration / NGS/WDS Qualifier

- 4X2 Ranger / 5R44E / 1L5F-GC / SRS2 / 1L5Z-GD / 1R31A30510 / 1R31A30511 / WDS B12.7 Release

- 4X4 Ranger / 5R44E / 1L5F-HC / JLB2 / 1L5Z-HD / 1R31B30510 / 1R31B30511 / WDS B12.7 Release

NOTE: AN ADAPTIVE LEARNING STRATEGY IN THE PCM CONTROLS THE SHIFT FEEL AND TIMING ON THE TRANSMISSION. THIS FEATURE IS DESIGNED TO INCREASE DURABILITY AND PROVIDE CONSISTENT SHIFT FEEL OVER THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT OF THIS REPROGRAMMING, THE TRANSMISSION MAY HAVE FIRM AND/OR SOFT SHIFTS. THIS OPERATION IS CONSIDERED NORMAL AND WILL NOT AFFECT FUNCTION OR DURABILITY OF THE TRANSMISSION. ONCE THE VEHICLE IS AT OPERATING TEMPERATURE, IT MAY TAKE SEVERAL SHIFTS AT THE SAME OPERATING CONDITION FOR THE TRANSMISSION TO PROPERLY ADAPT. OVER TIME, THE ADAPTIVE LEARNING PROCESS WILL FULLY UPDATE TRANSMISSION OPERATION. THE MORE VARIED THE DRIVING HABITS, SPEED AND TORQUE, THE LONGER IT MAY TAKE TO ADAPT, BUT THE MORE COMPLETE THE PROCESS WILL BE. ADDITIONALLY, THE RESETTING OF KEEP ALIVE MEMORY (KAM) SUCH AS PCM DISCONNECT, BATTERY DISCONNECT OR INSTALLATION OF A NEW BATTERY, THE STRATEGY MUST RELEARN.

Obtain an Authorized Modifications Decal (FPS 8262 - orderable through DOES II, 25/pkg) and list the date, dealer number, and summary of alterations performed. Select a prominent place adjacent to the Vehicle Emission Control Information Decal suitable for installing the Authorized Modifications Decal. Clean the area, install the decal, and cover it with a clear plastic decal shield.

 

Thanks Rockledge!

 

Has anyone had this reprogramming done? I understand the part about the PCM needing to 'learn' or adapt. But isn't that what it does anytime you disconnect the battery? Is there actually anything replaced? I see by the TSB that you're supposed to attach a decal somewhere so that would indicate something was changed. I guess I'm a little gun shy about going to a stealership without knowing what's going on best I can. Like what kind of procedure is it, how much does/should this procedure cost, can I do it myself, stuff like that. Thanks for any help given. Thanks again to Rockledge for finding the TSB.