reverse problem

[victoriaF150]

I have a 97 f150 xl 4x4 and am having some intermitent problems getting into reverse. If I start my truck cold it always goes to reverse. Sometimes after running for various lengths of time it will not go into reverse... I have to wait for various lengths of time for it to work again. I ve put it into reverse and it worked and drove 1/2 block and it didn't. I thought it was temp related but I have also driven longer periods and it has worked or not !@#$%#@ The fluid was just dbl flushed and new filter as well. No other tranny problems are apparent. The dealer was reluctant to test it as it might not be recreated when they have it and I'd be out some bucks for nothing. They said wait until it is a consistent problem. Which to me and my tranny experience means more moola Anyone have a suggestion ??

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[dptyscott]

check the linkage.

[victoriaF150]

I have checked the linkage and it cycles thru all the gears... stops on reverse and goes to park as well. Seems to be all correct

[Cardo]

I'm having the same exact problem right now!!!! Same thing, when cold it shifts into reverse no problem, as soon as the tranny has warmed up after driving a few miles, it becomes unpredictable. After warming up, it's almost a sure thing that it will not shift into reverse. I have no idea what the issue is. I had the tranny fluid changed at the local Jiffy Lube about 3K miles ago, (have never had a problem with them in the past). I took it back this past friday to ask them if they had added the Mercon V additive and they weren't sure. They said that it was listed on the service page that they had but they couldn't confirm. They promised to change out my fluid again with Motorcraft ATF with Mercon V this week (as soon as they get it in). Wierd thing is that all other gears engage perfectly! Would using the incorrect ATF have anything to do with this?

[dptyscott]

If the desighn calls for I sure would think it matters and demand satisfaction especialy if you were not having the problem before.

[victoriaF150]

The problem was just starting to occur before the change so I don't think it's the fluid

[dptyscott]

which trans do you have. check the door jab sticker or the info at the top of this page.

[victoriaF150]

I couldn't find a reference to the tranny on the door jamb and I am not sure what info at the top of this page you are refering to. The engine is a 4.6 litre
I m not 100% sure but I think the trans is a 4R70W Trans.
The pan is square ish

[dptyscott]

Here is the info on that trans. Am not sure if not using mer con v would cause your problem. I suggest you take it to a trans shop and let them diagnose it for you.

Model: 4R70w
Type: Four speed + reverse and 70(x10)lbs of torque
Years: 94-96 Bronco, F150
..........97-03 Expedition, F150
..........04-06 F150
Engines: 300, 302, 4.2L, 4.6L, 5.4L
Display: PRN(D)21 w/ overdrive lockout switch
Fluid: Mercon V
Ratios:
1st 2.84:1
2nd 1.55:1
3rd 1.00:1
4th 0.70:1
Reverse 2.32:1
Trans code: U ('94-'03), A ('04-'06)

[victoriaF150]

thanks for the info. It's a strange problem. Seems like me and Cardo are the only ones with it

[dptyscott]

Well I just don't know allot about these new fangled things but older models with c4 and c5 had low and reverse band that needed adjustment if no reverse or not braking the engine while in low but I'm not sure about yours.

[casey_1]

Originally Posted by dptyscott

Model: 4R70w
Type: Four speed + reverse and 70(x10)lbs of torque

The "R" in 4R70W means rear wheel drive, not plus reverse. And the "W" means wide ratio spread, compared to the AOD that this trans replaced.

And there are no adjustments possible on the 4R70W.

[dptyscott]

I didnt think there was.

[Cardo]

well VictoriaF150, I have a call into a shop at the moment, I haven't taken it in yet, but I'll let you know if I find out anything. I would hope that you'd do the same. Thanks!

[victoriaF150]

thanks guys I 'll let you know if anything new comes up