1997 - 2003 F-150

Drip drip drip went the water

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Old 11-18-2017, 04:25 PM
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Drip drip drip went the water

I've read about the computer module issues when it rains.

Mine will lock & unlock erratically, try to start even though the key isn't in the ignition, give me a door chime when I open the door even though the key is removed.

So I have to disconnect the battery when it's raining and I get out. I have confirmed water on what I assume is the computer module, the one with the fuses on the front of it right?

My question is, where is the water getting in. I have laid for an hour in the rain in the drivers footwell looking up into the mass of wiring and other stuff, I can't tell where it's leaking.

Is is there somewhere I can silicone caulk, maybe under the hood somewhere or around the windshield rubber gasket.

I have read that a new windshield has fixed the problem for some people and for others that wasn't the problem.

Thats a moot point anyway. I can't afford a new windshield or another old truck right now.

Thank you.
 
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Old 11-18-2017, 04:29 PM
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The windshield has to be resealed. Take it to an auto glass shop.

FYI, a new windshield is less than $200 installed around here.

Even when you get it dried out, you may need a new GEM.
 
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Old 11-18-2017, 04:39 PM
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Originally Posted by glc
The windshield has to be resealed. Take it to an auto glass shop.

FYI, a new windshield is less than $200 installed around here.

Even when you get it dried out, you may need a new GEM.
i understand a the GEM being ruined so far it runs just fine again when it dries out. Could it be messing up in ways I don't know about?

The only new issue is the transmission slipping when I first start.
 
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Old 11-18-2017, 05:44 PM
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What year, engine, and transmission? Any OBD2 codes?
 
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Old 11-18-2017, 11:08 PM
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Originally Posted by glc
The windshield has to be resealed. Take it to an auto glass shop.

FYI, a new windshield is less than $200 installed around here.

Even when you get it dried out, you may need a new GEM.
Originally Posted by glc
What year, engine, and transmission? Any OBD2 codes?
It's a 1997 4.6 Automatic with no OBD2 codes.
 
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Old 11-19-2017, 04:20 AM
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How many miles on it, and when was the last time the transmission fluid was changed?
 
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Old 11-26-2017, 05:07 PM
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220,000 but the odometer hasn't worked since I bought it 6 months ago. Therefore I don't know when but I would say never if an oil change is it all it needs.
 
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Old 11-26-2017, 05:47 PM
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Old 11-26-2017, 07:36 PM
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That article doesn't apply to a 97, it has a mechanical odometer.

Check the transmission fluid, it may be low. If it's dark and/or smells burnt, you have an internal problem. A fluid change may help, or it may make it worse. If you change it, drop the pan and drain the torque converter to get almost all the old fluid out.
 




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