(2000 3.0 s-type 75k miles)

Symptoms

Pro's

1. J -shifter is working fine. I can run through the gears no problem, and it reacts smoothly without any lurch.
2. Reverse hasn't been an issue.

Con's (All are Intermittent)

1. When first started, I can shift from Park to Drive and the car doesn't seem to engage in Drive. I can apply the gas, but nothing happens except the rpms moving up. I just wait a moment and it will engage.
2. While stopped at a stop light, the car will move forward but not want to shift from 1st (or 2nd) to the higher gear. It hasn't resisted from 3rd to 4th, or 4th to 5th. It's always the lower gears.
3. When having to hit the acceleration hard (entering the highway) the car will not downshift, the RPM's react, and the car doesn't engage into a lower gear. This has happend twice, since then, I've always moved into the J-shift side, so I don't get smashed.

Recently, (1 month ago) I disconnected the battery to replace the passenger window regulator. I also notice water in the trunk ("boot" for the proper), but I have since sealed the molding, she's been dry as a bone since.

I tried to get the transmission flushed and filled at the local oil change place. They wouldn't touch it, as "it doesn't have a dipstick".

Any suggestions? Thanks!
Shibajack.

 

I decided to see if running the A/C was the culprit. So, I drove without the A/C on this morning and last night. The car ran without any issues and of course good power, but I was sweaty!

I'm not showing any warning lights but I'm going to run to Advance and see if I can get some codes.

 

Good idea to get codes. A/C should have no bearing on the symptoms.

Some random thoughts:
- Good idea to check the transmission level but an oil change place won't be able to do it, you'll need a competent mechanic unless you DIY.
- Could be a transmission ECU problem
- Could be a valve body has bit the dust

So shifting via the J Gate works as normal?

 

Yep, the j-gate is fine, no issues. I'll get some codes, and update my post.

Anyone know a competent mechanic in the VA Beach area?

 

Personally I would give Ken Karr a call at www.motorcarsltd.com tell him whats going on. He would probably be able to fix you right up with answers and parts!

 

Will do. I'm not showing any codes. Thanks

 

Since yours is a Ford 5r55, service should be easy.....Also proof that you need to stay away from the "quickie" oil change places! The service should be reasonable, and the fluid cheap...Again, the advantage of having the Ford transmission.

Now, the issue with having the Ford trans is the valve body. That controls shifts, and certain springs are known to go bad. What you may be feeling are the early symptoms of that. Do a search here or check the FAQ section, there was a good write up on changing the valve body springs. Even if you are not a shade tree mechanic, any reputable transmission shop would be able to service the trans and while in there, drop the valve body and replace the springs for a pretty reasonable price.

 

Quick note: the original cars (1999-2003) don't have a separate trans ECU as it's all done by the engine one (the PCM aka ECM).

Which also means any trans codes are reported by almost any OBD tool - because they deal with the PCM.

BTW, it's probably a spring in the trans. Some good posts about those so Search and look in FAQs.
If you don't DIY, look for a trans shop instead of a jag dealer. They know the box (Ford 5R55N) whereas the dealer likely doesn't.