low / reverse servo

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Aug 16, 2010 | 05:18 PM

91_AERO

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low / reverse servo

Hi all John here. Great forum - new to Aerostar, but was on before w/ 85 Bronco II.

Having read all threads I could find pertaining to delayed engagement in 1st, reverse (3.0 / AL4D) - only in the morning. The teardown thread w/ excellent photos, let's me know what I'm in for, and looks like I can do it in the driveway. However when it shows the servo, it's kinda light on details.

It's mentioned about the gasket, but if I get seals from the dealer (couple miles away), do they come with a gasket? Or do I have to ask for one? Do I even need a new one?

Also, going to do the soft flush (info garnered here!). I recently (2K miles?) changed filter and pan gasket (rubber) - can I reuse pan gasket or do I need a new one?

TIA, John

Aug 16, 2010 | 05:54 PM

xlt4wd90

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From: SoCal

I'm not sure which gasket you're talking about, but unless you get something like a rebuild kit, anything from the dealer will be individual parts. Do you need one? That may depend on whether you destry the old one in the process of removing it, and is it leaking right now?

Aug 16, 2010 | 06:17 PM

91_AERO

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The pan gasket - no leaking.

It was referenced (I believe - I haven't looked at the thread recently), something about when removing the servo, the gasket may stick - somewhere? That's all I know about it. Guess I'll just ask for it. Probably for the better, to go new.

Thanks for the quick reply.

Aug 16, 2010 | 07:57 PM

xlt4wd90

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If it's an old gasket, it's probably compressed enough that it will not re-seal if you should take it apart and try to re-use it. A new one is not that expensive, soget one just to be safe.

I've never replaced a servo before, but I would get a new seal or gasket for it as well if I were going to.

Aug 18, 2010 | 07:07 AM

KhanTyranitar

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Delayed engagement in 1st and reverse is often a low fluid condition. Make sure the fluid level is correct. If it is low, it will churn and heat the fluid till it expands enough to engage, but in the mean time you are doing a lot of slipping. Just verify you don't have a fluid level problem.

Aug 18, 2010 | 05:46 PM

aerocolorado

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Here's a link to possbily THE best write up on an A4LD tranny rebuild I've ever seen. Meticulous details and superb photos accompany the article. On this link, go to page 3 and you will see the Low/Reverse servo photos and description for removal. Good luck!
My A4LD transmission rebuild diary - Ford Explorer Ranger Enthusiasts "Serious Explorations"®

Aug 19, 2010 | 02:51 AM

96_4wdr

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From: Washington state

if the seals don't fix the low/reverse slow fill problem, check this out

A4LD Low/Reverse Servo Extender - Ford Explorer Ranger Enthusiasts "Serious Explorations"®

i would also put in a shift kit, really helps high mileage A4LDs, while you have it up in the air.

also a new vacuum modulator unless the old one looks fairly bright and shiny. they cook and exhaust toast in the Aero and don't last long