Just bought a 1999 5.4L 4x4 last month with 38,000 miles. Seems to be a great truck except I have noticed a transmission problem in shifting from 2nd to 3rd from a cold start. The transmission doesn't want to shift into 3rd. When it finally shifts the rpms will go up about 1000 rpms and it will shift directly into OD. The transmission will usually shift normally through 3rd after this. Last evening on the way home I switched off the OD to see what would happen. I went about a mile at 50 mph before it finally shifted into 3rd. The transmission shifted normally after that.

Any ideas what may be going on? The dealer I bought the truck from suggests I try changing the fluid and not be too concerned about it unless it gets worse.

 

My 4R70W ('99) just underwent the wrench after my O/D light started flashing. My code was "Missed 2-3 shift".

The mechanic showed me a box of broken shifter springs. I wasn't the first guy he'd seen. He said a LOT of the '70s break that way.

Also, I had noticed ever since I bought the truck (with 67K on it) that it would coast before grabbing a gear after a good dose of throttle. That is gone now. Truth is, the trans has never worked this well.

So, my tranny didn't make the 100K club. Only made it to 90K.

Fortunately, I had the 6Y/100K powertrain warranty, so the repair cost me only $100.

Otherwise, you're looking at $1500 or more for the repair.

Good Luck!