TSB 09-6-1
 

I had this TSB done at approximately 35,000 miles. Cured the downshift squawk problem. I've started to notice this same sound again at 55,000 miles. It's only going to get more pronounced and will only increase in frequency. My concern is I won't be able to replicate it for the dealer before the 60K waranty is up. Has anyone had to have this TSB worked on twice?


2007 XLT

I can't believe you posted this! I just got my truck back from having the SECOND set of friction plates installed. Almost same mileage too. I had 59,200 when I took it in. Drive the truck at about 30mph up a slight slope or hill, let off the gas, then stomp on it. You want it to downshift and this is when the sqawk happens. Do this by yourself then when your good at it, call and take the mech for a ride before dropping it off. Thats what I did.

I am also worried they will go out again in another 30K miles. I would bring that up and see if they will warranty it then. It's not right.

Thanks Berry, I've got to wonder if this is a design flaw. I see your's is a 2008. Do the newer models, 09-11, have this issue also? Are the newer Expy's using the same 6 speed?

Yeah, there might be minor changes, but it's the same. There is a problem with either the friction plates themselves or how the tranny is so harsh on them. The parts are not that much. It's the labor that is extensive. At least we got a free tranny fluid change out of it.


Also, I had taken mine in for a ticking/marble sound on start up. Turned out to be the timing chain tensioners/gaskets, etc. Got a oil change and radiator flush because of that work.

Dropped the truck off this morning - mentioned TSB and second time this has happened. Service manager confirmed worked for transmission will be covered along with a front axle leak. Didn't need to test drive it with mechanic. I haven't brought up warranty coverage anticipating the next time it happens.

I've got to wonder if it's worth keeping the truck knowing it will probably happen again, every 25-30k miles. I've also had some issues with high speed vibration, 75-80. Seems to be transient, varying with road conditions, geometry and speed. It always happens on curves. Michelin LTX MS2 tires, balanced twice, not road force balanced.

At least my transmission fluid will be changed again.

Yeah, it's frustrating. I suspect we will see more people with this problem and may some F150's. Is your vibration from the rear or felt on the steering wheel?

Actually it's both, although it seems more noticeable in the rear. I notice the wheel nibble earlier and the rear becomes more pronounced later. On curves the rear vibration becomes significant. Tires have approximately 20k on them. They are slightly wider, P265/70-18, than the OEM tires. I have never had a problem with Michelin tires, although I'm sure it could happen. When I had the OEM Pirelli's on, the truck didn't vibrate.

I read somewhere, in another post, about vibration troubleshooting the rear end and drive shaft. I'm not sure if I need to go down that path.

I would take the tires back to where you got them and have them road tested. Tell them you are getting bad vibrations. I had a tire with 10K on it have to be replaced it was so out of round. It helped a ton.