98 Expedition Transmission Delay
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Joined: Nov 2004
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98 Expedition Transmission Delay
I recently (2 months ago) purchased a 98 Expedition/5.4L/120K. About a month ago my wife stated the vehicle hesitated shifting from reverse to drive. Further investigation and testing on my part found that this only happens when the vehicle is cold and the very first time it is driven for the day. Also, the vehicle shifts into reverse and responds immediately, but takes 10-15 seconds for the transmission to engage when shifting from reverse into drive before the vehicle will move. In addition, I had her back into the driveway, so she would be putting it into drive the very first thing rather than reverse, it still took 10 -15 seconds for the transmission to engage. As I stated, the issue only happens the very first time the vehicle is moved for the day.
Typically, she does not warm the vehicle up, so I do not know if this has any impact. The fluid level is fine, but I do not know when the last tranny service was performed as we just purchased the vehicle. Ford wants to run diagnostics, but I wanted to check with the experts here first.
Any thoughts/suggestions would be appreciated.
Typically, she does not warm the vehicle up, so I do not know if this has any impact. The fluid level is fine, but I do not know when the last tranny service was performed as we just purchased the vehicle. Ford wants to run diagnostics, but I wanted to check with the experts here first.
Any thoughts/suggestions would be appreciated.
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,332
Likes: 4
From: Baltimore
Sounds like the torque converter is draining down overnight. When you first start the vehicle the converter has to fill with fluid before it moves. Check the fluid and see if it is dark or has a burnt odor. It should be pink and clear.
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,332
Likes: 4
From: Baltimore
The dark fluid, without burnt odor, is an indication of lack of maintenance. If the fluid is shaded toward brown with a burnt odor, it is an indication the transmission has been overheated. A flush may be worth a try, but don't get your hopes up. When you start having shifting or engagement problems, it's usually because of some type of mehanical failure. I suggest you try to find a good reputable transmission shop or dealer and take it there for a test drive or diagnotics. They may recommend you try a flush first, but I suspect they will suggest a rebuild.
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