97 F150XLT 2WD long bed (automatic) - I am experiencing strange vibrations at certain speeds, if feels to me like something in the drivetrain. I got underneath to check the U-joints (which seem tight), but I was able to wiggle the driveshaft a little bit from side to side where it exits the tail of the transmission. I see many posts about a TSB on replacing the tail and the driveshaft, I don't know if that was done (just bought the truck at 81K miles). The driveshaft is VERY large diameter though... Anyway, the question is, is ANY play (side to side) acceptable where the tailshaft exits the transmission? I can see the shaft moving a bit, as if it does not go through a solid bearing or bushing.....

 

I have a '97 also, and have noticed play in mine too. I don't know if it's normal or not either. I'm surprised no one else has replied to your query.

Rick

 

Yep....I have lot of play in mine as well. Relacing the U-Joints had no affect at all on the vibration/shaking I feel.

I'm thinking, since you brought this up, slfalco is that you should replace the extension housing and tell us if it fixes the vibration.

Extension Housing P/N:: F3LY-7A039-A

Extension Housing Gasket P/N:: F6AZ-7086-A

 

do any of you experience a thunk/shudder when you pull up to or away from a stop? just wondering.

 

Major shutter in reverse, for me. It's only in reverse though, and only if I really press down on the pedal like I'm racing.

 

Well, here are the symptoms that I see - I can feel a shuddering when I am slowing to a stop (from like 20MPH to 0). Also, If I am stopped sitting in drive with the brake on, I can feel a small shudder when I release the brake. I also have a strange vibration between 40-50MPH where the truck feels like it is going over small bumps, and the steering column actually vibrates or shakes up and down, as does the seat. I am thinking that all this is caused by something inside the transmission, maybe the torque converter? I don't suspect the driveshaft, since I can feel the shudder just by releasing the brake at a full stop. I have not owned a vehicle with an automatic for many years, but this is discouraging. Does anyone have any experiences like these, and if so, what can be done? Is there something in the transmission that can cause these symptoms?

 

Bought a '96 auto with 5.0 4x4 F150 with 37,000 miles. Have a six- month warranty on drivetrain and I took it back to the dealer this morning. I bought it four weeks ago.

I heard a chirp that sounded and felt like the cab was moving. Just a little 'bip' for half a second. Have to know how to make it do it, but it is related to starting and stopping. Also the slightest shudder in drive train (under me?) around 45. I think. Sometimes I am not sure if I am feeling these issues or just bumps on the road. Then, it totally bogged and would not shift down when pulling 3000 lbs up a slight incline. I finally made it up in first gear, but 2 and R spun like I was in Neutral.

After 15 minutes of driving around, the tranny mechanic said, "I know what it is."

He said that a warped tran case was not permitting enough pressure to the clutch packs. Thus, hard shifting and no pulling.

He said that the 'bip' noise was the rear shaft on the transmission moving around.

I am assuming that my warranty is going to give me a new transmission.

 

How tough of a job is it to replace the tailshaft extension on the 4RW70? I assume you remove the driveshaft (disconnect the rear u-joint and slide out the yoke), support the tranny, remove the crossmember, and then remove the tailshaft. Questions though:

- is it necessary to drain the oil out? Or will a manageable amount spill out that can then be topped off?
- Are there any special tools needed? I have never done this sort of thing... Does it just slide off, with the shaft staying on the end of the transmission? Or does the shaft come off with the housing, and then have to be removed from it?
-anyone know the cost of the housing and gasket?

 

I'm not sure what's required to replace the extension housing. What you stated sounds logical to me though.

If you ask Deacon, he replaced his and could tell you what to do.

Extension Housing Gasket F6AZ7086A $10.20

Extension Housing Seal F6UZ7052A $10.13

Extension Housing F3LY7A039A $102.37