'97 F-150 Auto Transmission Shudder

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Jul 9, 2001 | 09:30 AM

deere81

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'97 F-150 Auto Transmission Shudder

Jul 23, 2001 | 08:04 AM

TimRichter

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'97 F-150 Auto Transmission Shudder

I have a 1997 F150 Supercab with the 4.6L V8 and electronic overdrive auto transmission. I have a shudder under LIGHT loads, usually in 2nd or 3rd gear. It never happens in 1st or overdrive. If I stomp on the gas, shifting is great. When driving rural roads in "Sunday drive" mode, the shudder is awful.

I've changed the transmission fluid (tranny, torque converter & filter) and also changed the spark plug wires and plugs. The engine ran rough (7 cylinders) one day, pointing to a plug/wire problem.

Another symptom that might be related is that when I am stopped for a long time 2-3+ minutes in traffic, the engine drops about 50rpm and runs roughly. If I shift into neutral or just tap the gas, everything smooths out.

I've been to a dealer and local garage without any sound advice. Has anyone here experienced something like this?

Thanks,
Tim

Jul 24, 2001 | 09:13 AM

78f250

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'97 F-150 Auto Transmission Shudder

Try running MERCON V in the tranny. It is a fully sinthetic (sp?) tranny fluid. Ford tech are required to drain the tranny AND torque convertor if you are getting a 2-3 tranny shudder. A aux tranny cooler will help as well. Change the fluid every 20,000 miles as the tranny runs very hot. (This is one of the reasons for the shudder). You should be good with this.

Jul 24, 2001 | 09:23 AM

TimRichter

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'97 F-150 Auto Transmission Shudder

Thanks for the response- I had the transmission fluid changed, but they did not use Mercon V- that's not called out as the specified fluid for the transmission. I checked on ALLDATA and they specifically state use of MERCON V can cause internal damage.

My truck also has the trailer towing package which includes a transmission cooler. Would an additional cooler help?

I also have a Jeep Grand Cherokee and that transmission is very sensitive to the transmission fluid- with all of the electronics and servo valves now.

Can anyone clarify the type of ATF used for the F150?

Thanks!