my 4.0 SOHC '98 explorer with the 5R55 trans, 4x4 AWD has this problem, when I select Low gear at a dead stop it will shift into first gear and if I accelerate it takes off normally but if I lift the gas it will just freewheel and roll away, no engine braking at all, if I give gas again it will pull again, it feels like if it had a one way clutch in the drivetrain, I need first gear because I live in the mountains and it helps a lot going downhill in rough terrain with the assist of engine braking but it does not hold at all, second gear can be selected at almost any speed and works perfectly for slowing down on the hills, OD off works fine also.

trans is OK, fluid is perfect, does not slip and shifts smooth, I change fluid and filter every 20.000 km (12.500 miles)

this friends who owns a '06 sportrac has exactly the same problem, same tranny but his is part time 4x4, he had it fixed a year ago, he says the dealer took only a couple of hours to fix the problem and said it was a gasket or something, he does not know much about mechanics but must have been something easy since 2 hours is not much, the same problem is back with his truck now.

I tried to adjust the gear selector switch (rooster) at the tranny but it only moves a tiny bit, I adjusted the bands as well but no difference, someone suggested a sprag is bad.

what could it be wrong? is this a common explorer failure?

thanks

Augusto.

 

I fixed one with no engine breaking in first and no codes by replacing the coast clutch solenoid. The solenoid checked fine electrically, but wasn't working manically. If the coast clutch is not coming on you wont have engine braking in first.

You can replace it by pulling the pan, unplugging the solenoid, removing the braket that holds all the solenoids, and it will come right out.

Sorry I dont have the part# for ya, but print that picture and take it to the dealer to help ID the right one.

 

thank you very much, I'll do it next week, sounds like piece of cake and a trans fluid change is due in just 2.000 km so I'll do both jobs at once.

I appreciate your help.

Augusto.

 

This can be caused by a blown out low-reverse servo gasket. It is a green gasket located under the four bolt cover next to the valve body.

 

I'll check that gasket also, thanks a lot.

Augusto.