Overdrive question

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Jan 2, 2010 | 11:19 AM

Erikh425

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Joined: Dec 2009

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From: Northern MN

Overdrive question

I have searched but haven't gotten a difinitive answer. The OD switch on my column is broken. Pushing it does not light up the light nor does it cause my rpms to change when i am driving at 60 mph. Is there a way I can test to make sure it is in OD? I have tried counting shifts and it seems to have four gears. When I am driving 60 mph it is running 2000 rpms. It seems right, but i am on a 500 mile trip right now and just want to be sure. I was also thinking there may be a fuse or another override to keep it going into overdrive. I plan to replace the whole assembly when I get home but not in the middle of a trip.
2000 LTD 6.8
Thanks
EH

Jan 2, 2010 | 12:03 PM

sddesigns

FTE Leadership Emeritus

Joined: Jul 2008

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From: Wharton, NJ

I really can't tell you anymore than at 60 mph 2k sounds right. I have the V10 with 3.73 LS rear, and that's just about where my rpm's are at 60.

Jan 2, 2010 | 12:25 PM

Mark Kovalsky

Frmr Ford Trans Engr

Joined: Aug 1999

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From: SE Florida

There is no fuse or override that will keep it out of overdrive. 2000 RPM at 60 MPH is in overdrive.

Jan 2, 2010 | 04:57 PM

Erikh425

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From: Northern MN

Just what i thought. Thanks for the replies. I will stop thinking about it now.

Jan 2, 2010 | 07:50 PM

Husky44

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Joined: Dec 2005

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From: Vero Beach, FL

Erik:

Your O/D switch is broken (not functioning). If you never tow, or have another reason to keep your truck from shifting into O/D, you're OK. However, if you want to be able to keep it from shifting into O/D, you need to replace the switch.

It's about a 2 hour job--you need to replace the entire shift lever. Seems like it was about $60 or so, but don't quote me on that. One of the wires for the O/D switch gets pinched/cut in the steering column. It's easiest just to replace the unit.

My new one (about 3.5 years old now) still functions, but the light doesn't work. I can live with that, but I have to be able to defeat the O/D shifting.

Jan 2, 2010 | 10:25 PM

Erikh425

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Joined: Dec 2009

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From: Northern MN

I was able to find threads on replacement. My plan is to replace it when i get a chance.

Jan 3, 2010 | 11:33 AM

ukmat71

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Joined: May 2007

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From: UK , Florida or Ebay ;)

on my 2000 xlt i replaced the switch , just pull off the cowl at the end of the transmition lever and pop the switch out , 30 second job.
i think it cost me about $3.00 on ebay , i only wanted the cowl as it was missing so i might have a spare switch if you want it. (its dark here at the moment so cant see in my part bins)