really useful writeup on dreaded e4od i found
#46
10-18-2018, 03:38 PM
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#47
04-04-2019, 11:22 PM
Advice on proper fix: 92 f150 single cab flareside 4.9L I6 w/ 96 2wd E4OD swapped
I have a 92 f150 flareside 4.9l i6 w/ a 96 2wd E4od (changed out by the previous owner) that has the 96 internals including the solenoid pack W/O DIODES(*Needs Replaced; Faulty) and the original model year refurbished pcm(ford eec iv f3pf-12a650-sa). My question is, being that the original style pcm doesn't have the diodes on it like the later version, should I swap the solenoid pack to the matching model year as the pcm or update the pcm to the later version w/o PWM?
***It has been driven with current layout 92 cab, block, and pcm w/ 96 trans and pack for a year against my knowledge. It does work. With the exception of uncomfortable upshifts, it has made it cross country like that as well. In case anyone was curious***
The transmission has all 96 internals currently with the 95-98 solenoid pack harness end piece(to fit the 96 solenoid pack) and a 89-94 mlps and harness end piece. Now to the best of my understanding the harness section that goes to my transmission "should" have matching model year end pieces. Correct?
Long story short I started chasing down a rough upshift through all 4 gears with 3-4 being most noticable. No slipping at all. All gears work. Never "falls out of gear". Smooth down shifts. Complete fluid flush with Valvoline Dex/Merc. Torque converter seems solid and works as it's supposed. New filter, old was dirty but no big pieces of metal or on magnet. Accumulator body and main valve body have been removed, cleaned, springs replaced(none of the orig. were broken or damaged), inspected for proper movement and reinstalled. NO CEL CODES ON, LIGHT DOES WORK, SCANNER DOESN'T PULL ANY CODES EITHER.
I'm just ready to get this thing sealed up and working right already. I have yet to find anything inside the transmission that stands out as an aha! that was my problem! Most of the worm tracks have been clean, valves move freely w/o sticking. I don't know if the 96 solenoid pack not having diodes is my issue or the pack it's self but I know the 2 versions aren't compatible and I want it RIGHT.
***It has been driven with current layout 92 cab, block, and pcm w/ 96 trans and pack for a year against my knowledge. It does work. With the exception of uncomfortable upshifts, it has made it cross country like that as well. In case anyone was curious***
The transmission has all 96 internals currently with the 95-98 solenoid pack harness end piece(to fit the 96 solenoid pack) and a 89-94 mlps and harness end piece. Now to the best of my understanding the harness section that goes to my transmission "should" have matching model year end pieces. Correct?
Long story short I started chasing down a rough upshift through all 4 gears with 3-4 being most noticable. No slipping at all. All gears work. Never "falls out of gear". Smooth down shifts. Complete fluid flush with Valvoline Dex/Merc. Torque converter seems solid and works as it's supposed. New filter, old was dirty but no big pieces of metal or on magnet. Accumulator body and main valve body have been removed, cleaned, springs replaced(none of the orig. were broken or damaged), inspected for proper movement and reinstalled. NO CEL CODES ON, LIGHT DOES WORK, SCANNER DOESN'T PULL ANY CODES EITHER.
I'm just ready to get this thing sealed up and working right already. I have yet to find anything inside the transmission that stands out as an aha! that was my problem! Most of the worm tracks have been clean, valves move freely w/o sticking. I don't know if the 96 solenoid pack not having diodes is my issue or the pack it's self but I know the 2 versions aren't compatible and I want it RIGHT.
#48
07-24-2019, 12:20 PM
Help!!!!
I've got a 96 F250 7.3l that I'm having weird random transmission issues. Its definitely electrical and I cant pinpoint it to the source. At the once in a blue moon moment the truck will shift up likes it supposed to when you take off but then shift right back out and then try to shift up again and itll do this and not quit till you shut the truck off and start it back up then itll shift fine till that once in a blue moment.this all happens about after 2nd gear, you have no power and it just wont hold a gear till you shut her down. It was only throwing codes for the ABS stuff so we've changed the wheel speed sensor and the abs module behind the glovebox. Bout ready to stay screw it and do a manual swap. Any ideas as to what this problem is before I tear out everything automatic in this truck
#49
07-24-2019, 07:49 PM
#50
07-24-2019, 10:47 PM
I dont if it is throwing ABS codes anymore, I dont have a code reader that does ABS or Transmission codes. I do know that my CEL doesnt come on nor does the OD off light flash and the ABS light doesnt come on anymore. If had it at the transmission shop and they said it was throwing ABS codes which is the reason why we've changed the abs while speed sensor and the ABS module behind the glove box. It seems like when it does this weird shifting ordeal that it's like the torque converter is trying to lock or something
#52
03-14-2020, 03:47 PM
When my OD off light was flashing on the he shifter of my 1995 Bronco, I was able to trace it down to the O2 sensor wires being melted together because they were routed too close to the exhaust pipe from the factory. Had to cut away the damaged harness connectors and wired up the oxygen sensor direct. Completely fixed my problem. No problems for the past 17,000 miles.
#53
03-06-2021, 08:42 AM
My new-to-me '97 F350 CCLB dually PSD 7.3L 4sp Auto arrives next week. I drove it an hour or so the day I purchased it. A few hard shifts, but overall well behaved, including OD on/off. What can I do to further assess condition of the tranny upon arrival other than the obvious: 1) test drive; 2) check fluid level and fluid quality/clarity; 3) read codes ?
Thrilled to see someone of @Mark Kovalsky 's experience and expertise on this forum.
Thrilled to see someone of @Mark Kovalsky 's experience and expertise on this forum.
#54
03-06-2021, 01:51 PM
#55
06-29-2022, 10:21 PM
E4OD torque convertor slips when in overdrive
I've read a bunch about the E4OD. I have a 1990 E-250 with the 7.3 diesel and a E4OD.
I found that the trans slips at and above 45mph while in overdrive. No TC slip when out of OD.
I replaced the MLPS, TPS, VSS, Selenoid pack, fluid, filter, and the selenoid pack wire harness. No chamge to performance.
I took it to a trans shop. The codes indicate the TPS. The shop did everything I did again. No change to performance.
Good shop. Fella said he wouldn't charge me because he could not diagnose the problem. He recommended I consider replacing the computer.
1) Are there suspect wires from/to the TPS that typically get burned/rubbed that would cause the TC to slip?
2) Is it worth replacing the computer?
Much Thanks.
I found that the trans slips at and above 45mph while in overdrive. No TC slip when out of OD.
I replaced the MLPS, TPS, VSS, Selenoid pack, fluid, filter, and the selenoid pack wire harness. No chamge to performance.
I took it to a trans shop. The codes indicate the TPS. The shop did everything I did again. No change to performance.
Good shop. Fella said he wouldn't charge me because he could not diagnose the problem. He recommended I consider replacing the computer.
1) Are there suspect wires from/to the TPS that typically get burned/rubbed that would cause the TC to slip?
2) Is it worth replacing the computer?
Much Thanks.
#56
06-30-2022, 08:26 AM
The following users liked this post:
#57
12-03-2023, 07:40 PM
VSS LINK
I have seen a plethra of E4OD problem threads popping up lately. I hope that this thread will help guide those with issues through the diagnostic and maybe even the repair process. Hopefully this can save some of you some time, money, and frustration.
The E4OD serves it's purpose but it's purpose is not high mileage use in a Bronco nor offroad use. The E4OD is an electronically controlled transmission, that like many A/T's, does NOT like heat. Read on and find your specific issue.
I encourage those familiar with the E4OD to help me by providing your information, experiences, and providing and correcting information in this thread.
This is in no way the end-all be all of transmission diagnosis. This is only a means of helping you to diagnose your own transmission. If you feel that something has lead you to a dead end, post. This is in no way a replacement for a QUALITY transmission shop (read: NOT AAMCO!). I am not a mechanic nor am I a transmission specialist. I am merely someone who has dealt with my own E4OD problems and am trying to apply that in order to help others. Read on at your own risk
Step 1:
So you've encountered a problem. Let's start by using the KISS method. Check your transmission fluid. To do this ensure that the truck is in park, running, and on level ground. If the fluid is low, top is off. DO NOT OVERFILL YOUR TRANSMISSION. This will cause the fluid to froth and will be as bad as not having enough fluid.
You want to also make sure that the fluid is a nice bright red and does not have a burnt odor. If it is dark or has a strong burnt order, change your fluid, filter, and pan gasket.
Doing this is very simple. Drain the pan, drop the pan, pull old filter out, install new filter, reinstall filter, gasket, and pan. Refill with fluid. Remember, your transmission is running between 150 and 200*F. The fluid is sitting in a pan and does not quickly dissapate heat. Let your transmission cool before working on it.
"My transmission doesn't have a drain plug". You have only one option this time. Crack the pan and drain it. Ford offers a pan with a drain plug and you can search for writeups on drain plug installation.
Here is the P/N for the Ford pan w/ the drain plug F81Z 7A194 BA
Step 2:
Pull codes! Here is a writeup on how to pull codes:
Ford Fuel Injection How To Run a Self-Test
Here are what the codes mean
Ford Fuel Injection 3 Digit Self-test Codes 111-171
From here you can pretty much diagnose any issue that you can imagine. The EEC-IV is good at helping us determine what is acting up in our vehicles. Most times it will come down to a bad sensor, solenoid pack, etc. We'll get back to these later.
I got one of the following codes. What do I do?
121, 122, 123, 167
You have a problem with your TPS. At this point you can either further diagnose that issue or replace the TPS.
566, 617, 618, 619, 621, 622, 626, 627, 629, 641
Your solenoid pack is affected. You either have a bad solenoid pack or a problem in the harness or connectors. A new solenoid pack can be purchased from Ford. Here is a thread with some good solenoid pack info
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...1008&highlight
634, 654, 667, 668, 675,
636, 637, 638, 657
This was caused by either a faulty TOT (Transmission Over Temperature) sensor, a bad connector or harness, or the transmission was overheated.
Step 3:
The newest Bronco is, at this point, 12 years old. Connectors get dirty, the break, and wires get brittle. You may find that you are having a transmission problem and that it is just a dirty connection. So what connectors are there on the E4OD and what do they do?
The connector on the driver's side of the transmission is for the MLPS (Manual Lever Position Sensor). This tells the transmission what gear you have selected so that it may act accordingly. The connector on the passenger's side of the transmission is the shift solenoid connector.
Pull these connectors and inspect them and the wiring very thoroughly. Get some electric contact cleaner and spray down the connectors on the harness and the transmission thoroughly. After you have done this, be sure to let them dry. Reconnect them and see if your condition approves. Pull codes again and see what you are left with.
Step 4:
VSS and TPS cleaning and adjusting
The VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor). Ford Fuel Injection Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
These work by reading the speed of the tone ring as the teeth pass by the sensor. Your sensor is located on top of the rear differential. It is held on by a bolt. Remove the bolt and pull the sensor. You likely will find that it is covered in metal shavings. Don't panic, this is normal. Wipe the VSS clean and reinstall. The same goes here, inspect the connector and wiring and clean. Pull codes again.
VSS Testing
http://www.wellsmfgcorp.com/pdf/Counterpoint4_2.pdf
Another sensor that likes to play tricks on the E4OD is the TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) Ford Fuel Injection Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
So now you've done all your tests and your transmission is still having issues. I will break down some of the more common issues not including internal hardware failure.
Common Transmission Issues
I'm getting a hard shift from 1st to 2nd
This is called "safe mode" also referred to as limp mode. The transmission is essentially protecting itself from any further damage you may cause. The transmission is forcing itself to shift using pressure rather than the shift solenoids. Be aware that this is normal when there is a problem and you should continue with your diagnosis.
More info on limp mode
http://web.archive.org/web/200402051...c.com/limp.htm
I have a hard/delayed shift into reverse
This is an extremely common problem with the E4OD. The transmission requires a lot of fluid to engage reverse. This takes time and often leads to a very firm shift. Don't worry, you arn't the only one. Do a search and you will find lots of threads regarding the issue.
Here is an article on how to fix it. Be warned, it will require internal modification.
AltoInstruction Book -- AltoUSA.com
I don't have Reverse!
Repeat all the above. Hopefully it is an MLPS but could be an internal problem.
My transmission will not shift into 3rd or 4th but I am not getting any codes
This is a tricky one. It could be many things but if you have been offroading, mudding, or driving through deep water, I recommend you replace your alternator and see if this happens. It is possible that the rectifier circuit went and the alternator is sending a mixed AC/DC signal to the PCM confusing it.
My truck wants to stall when put in reverse
This may or may not be accompanied by irraddic idle and/or codes. If no codes are found pull the IAC (Idle Air Control) sensor and clean/replace as needed.
Here is an IAC cleaning writeup
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...t=IAC+cleaning
Another potential problem is that the transmission filter may have dropped into the pan. This is easy enough to fix. Remove pan, reinstall filter, fill with fluid.
There is a clip made that will help hold the filter in place since from the factory the filter is only held in by the o-ring. Look 3/4 of the way down this page.
E4OD, 4R100 Transmission from PATC, E4OD, 4R100
It looks like this:
There is also a magnet from Ford that works as a filter retainer. p/n F3RZ-7E290-AC
http://web.archive.org/web/200107271...in.asp?num=037
My truck starts off in 4th gear
This can be accompanied by a draining dead battery and a self diagnosis not initiating. This can be caused by the EEC relay.
More info here:
http://web.archive.org/web/200402162...s/bull_125.htm
When I come to a stop my transmission feels like it goes into Neutral
This is likely an issue with your MLPS.
My trucks slips into neutral and then slams into gear whenever it wants
MLPS
My Speedo needle is bouncing
Either an issue with the VSS or the tone ring located in the rear diff. Inspect and replace as necessary.
MLPS INFO
After 94 the MLPS was redisigned with a different connector to keep out water. I recommend buying a new MLPS from Ford. It will require you to repin the harness connector.
FullSizeBronco.com - 78 - 96 Ford Bronco offroad club, forums, tech, installs
http://fullsizebronco.com/forum/show...8&postcount=37
MLPS Testing
http://www.transonline.com/transDige...ers/index.html
MLPS Sensor Values
The Ultimate TPS Thread
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...&highlight=TPS
When I come to a stop my truck lurches. Stalls at lights
Could be an issue with the TCC. Check the and clean the wiring on the solenoid pack connector. Test the MLPS.
Shift Solenoid Testing
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...7918&highlight
My transmission is leaking fluid out the front
One of three conditions has likely happened.
1. The transmission too much fluid and was venting through the front pump
2. The transmission overheated and was venting fluid through the front pump
3. The front pump seal is bad.
Replacing the front pump seal is not involved once the transmission is out. Simply remove the old seal and install the new one. Purchase the seal from Ford. A transmission removal and install thread will be posted further down.
External trans filter, cooler, and thermostat install
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...ad.php?t=74305
E4OD Removal and Installation
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...ad.php?t=48997
Other Usefull Links
e4od rebuild pictures from trucks photos on webshots
Random transmission parts
E4OD, 4R100 Transmission from PATC, E4OD, 4R100
http://www.oregonperformancetransmis...gory_Code=E4OD
Hard to find transmission parts
http://www.transpartsonline.com/tpfi...PartsType=E4OD
Transmission Parts Rebuild Kits Parts for Coolers - 8000 Parts Online
The E4OD serves it's purpose but it's purpose is not high mileage use in a Bronco nor offroad use. The E4OD is an electronically controlled transmission, that like many A/T's, does NOT like heat. Read on and find your specific issue.
I encourage those familiar with the E4OD to help me by providing your information, experiences, and providing and correcting information in this thread.
This is in no way the end-all be all of transmission diagnosis. This is only a means of helping you to diagnose your own transmission. If you feel that something has lead you to a dead end, post. This is in no way a replacement for a QUALITY transmission shop (read: NOT AAMCO!). I am not a mechanic nor am I a transmission specialist. I am merely someone who has dealt with my own E4OD problems and am trying to apply that in order to help others. Read on at your own risk
Step 1:
So you've encountered a problem. Let's start by using the KISS method. Check your transmission fluid. To do this ensure that the truck is in park, running, and on level ground. If the fluid is low, top is off. DO NOT OVERFILL YOUR TRANSMISSION. This will cause the fluid to froth and will be as bad as not having enough fluid.
You want to also make sure that the fluid is a nice bright red and does not have a burnt odor. If it is dark or has a strong burnt order, change your fluid, filter, and pan gasket.
Doing this is very simple. Drain the pan, drop the pan, pull old filter out, install new filter, reinstall filter, gasket, and pan. Refill with fluid. Remember, your transmission is running between 150 and 200*F. The fluid is sitting in a pan and does not quickly dissapate heat. Let your transmission cool before working on it.
"My transmission doesn't have a drain plug". You have only one option this time. Crack the pan and drain it. Ford offers a pan with a drain plug and you can search for writeups on drain plug installation.
Here is the P/N for the Ford pan w/ the drain plug F81Z 7A194 BA
Step 2:
Pull codes! Here is a writeup on how to pull codes:
Ford Fuel Injection How To Run a Self-Test
Here are what the codes mean
Ford Fuel Injection 3 Digit Self-test Codes 111-171
From here you can pretty much diagnose any issue that you can imagine. The EEC-IV is good at helping us determine what is acting up in our vehicles. Most times it will come down to a bad sensor, solenoid pack, etc. We'll get back to these later.
I got one of the following codes. What do I do?
121, 122, 123, 167
You have a problem with your TPS. At this point you can either further diagnose that issue or replace the TPS.
566, 617, 618, 619, 621, 622, 626, 627, 629, 641
Your solenoid pack is affected. You either have a bad solenoid pack or a problem in the harness or connectors. A new solenoid pack can be purchased from Ford. Here is a thread with some good solenoid pack info
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...1008&highlight
634, 654, 667, 668, 675,
636, 637, 638, 657
This was caused by either a faulty TOT (Transmission Over Temperature) sensor, a bad connector or harness, or the transmission was overheated.
Step 3:
The newest Bronco is, at this point, 12 years old. Connectors get dirty, the break, and wires get brittle. You may find that you are having a transmission problem and that it is just a dirty connection. So what connectors are there on the E4OD and what do they do?
The connector on the driver's side of the transmission is for the MLPS (Manual Lever Position Sensor). This tells the transmission what gear you have selected so that it may act accordingly. The connector on the passenger's side of the transmission is the shift solenoid connector.
Pull these connectors and inspect them and the wiring very thoroughly. Get some electric contact cleaner and spray down the connectors on the harness and the transmission thoroughly. After you have done this, be sure to let them dry. Reconnect them and see if your condition approves. Pull codes again and see what you are left with.
Step 4:
VSS and TPS cleaning and adjusting
The VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor). Ford Fuel Injection Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
These work by reading the speed of the tone ring as the teeth pass by the sensor. Your sensor is located on top of the rear differential. It is held on by a bolt. Remove the bolt and pull the sensor. You likely will find that it is covered in metal shavings. Don't panic, this is normal. Wipe the VSS clean and reinstall. The same goes here, inspect the connector and wiring and clean. Pull codes again.
VSS Testing
http://www.wellsmfgcorp.com/pdf/Counterpoint4_2.pdf
Another sensor that likes to play tricks on the E4OD is the TPS (Throttle Position Sensor) Ford Fuel Injection Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
So now you've done all your tests and your transmission is still having issues. I will break down some of the more common issues not including internal hardware failure.
Common Transmission Issues
I'm getting a hard shift from 1st to 2nd
This is called "safe mode" also referred to as limp mode. The transmission is essentially protecting itself from any further damage you may cause. The transmission is forcing itself to shift using pressure rather than the shift solenoids. Be aware that this is normal when there is a problem and you should continue with your diagnosis.
More info on limp mode
http://web.archive.org/web/200402051...c.com/limp.htm
I have a hard/delayed shift into reverse
This is an extremely common problem with the E4OD. The transmission requires a lot of fluid to engage reverse. This takes time and often leads to a very firm shift. Don't worry, you arn't the only one. Do a search and you will find lots of threads regarding the issue.
Here is an article on how to fix it. Be warned, it will require internal modification.
AltoInstruction Book -- AltoUSA.com
I don't have Reverse!
Repeat all the above. Hopefully it is an MLPS but could be an internal problem.
My transmission will not shift into 3rd or 4th but I am not getting any codes
This is a tricky one. It could be many things but if you have been offroading, mudding, or driving through deep water, I recommend you replace your alternator and see if this happens. It is possible that the rectifier circuit went and the alternator is sending a mixed AC/DC signal to the PCM confusing it.
My truck wants to stall when put in reverse
This may or may not be accompanied by irraddic idle and/or codes. If no codes are found pull the IAC (Idle Air Control) sensor and clean/replace as needed.
Here is an IAC cleaning writeup
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...t=IAC+cleaning
Another potential problem is that the transmission filter may have dropped into the pan. This is easy enough to fix. Remove pan, reinstall filter, fill with fluid.
There is a clip made that will help hold the filter in place since from the factory the filter is only held in by the o-ring. Look 3/4 of the way down this page.
E4OD, 4R100 Transmission from PATC, E4OD, 4R100
It looks like this:
There is also a magnet from Ford that works as a filter retainer. p/n F3RZ-7E290-AC
http://web.archive.org/web/200107271...in.asp?num=037
My truck starts off in 4th gear
This can be accompanied by a draining dead battery and a self diagnosis not initiating. This can be caused by the EEC relay.
More info here:
http://web.archive.org/web/200402162...s/bull_125.htm
When I come to a stop my transmission feels like it goes into Neutral
This is likely an issue with your MLPS.
My trucks slips into neutral and then slams into gear whenever it wants
MLPS
My Speedo needle is bouncing
Either an issue with the VSS or the tone ring located in the rear diff. Inspect and replace as necessary.
MLPS INFO
After 94 the MLPS was redisigned with a different connector to keep out water. I recommend buying a new MLPS from Ford. It will require you to repin the harness connector.
FullSizeBronco.com - 78 - 96 Ford Bronco offroad club, forums, tech, installs
http://fullsizebronco.com/forum/show...8&postcount=37
MLPS Testing
http://www.transonline.com/transDige...ers/index.html
MLPS Sensor Values
The Ultimate TPS Thread
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...&highlight=TPS
When I come to a stop my truck lurches. Stalls at lights
Could be an issue with the TCC. Check the and clean the wiring on the solenoid pack connector. Test the MLPS.
Shift Solenoid Testing
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...7918&highlight
My transmission is leaking fluid out the front
One of three conditions has likely happened.
1. The transmission too much fluid and was venting through the front pump
2. The transmission overheated and was venting fluid through the front pump
3. The front pump seal is bad.
Replacing the front pump seal is not involved once the transmission is out. Simply remove the old seal and install the new one. Purchase the seal from Ford. A transmission removal and install thread will be posted further down.
External trans filter, cooler, and thermostat install
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...ad.php?t=74305
E4OD Removal and Installation
http://www.fullsizebronco.com/forum/...ad.php?t=48997
Other Usefull Links
e4od rebuild pictures from trucks photos on webshots
Random transmission parts
E4OD, 4R100 Transmission from PATC, E4OD, 4R100
http://www.oregonperformancetransmis...gory_Code=E4OD
Hard to find transmission parts
http://www.transpartsonline.com/tpfi...PartsType=E4OD
Transmission Parts Rebuild Kits Parts for Coolers - 8000 Parts Online
To the person who posted the VSS link for testing I wanted to let you know that I'm unable to open that link due to a firewall. And I was wondering if there's any way you could download the PDF so people could access it.!
#58
12-06-2023, 12:02 PM
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