I notice that my automatic transmission will hesitate going into gear until 1 second later when it is cold. but once it gets warmed up then the transmission engages into gear everytime. The warm up period usually takes about 1 or 2 minutes of driving.

Is this normal? Has anyone else had this problem.

 

Change your tranny oil/filter right NOW!

See my website for instructions here:
http://members.shaw.ca/pferlow/transmission_oil.htm

Or visit www.f150world.com where they have HOW-TO articles but you'll need to join as a member to view them.

I have the 4R70W tranny. Delayed shifts especially 2-3rd on freeway entrance ramp when cold. Went away after fluid change!

I waited till 50k miles to change my tranny fluid... will do the next ones at 30k miles.

It's messy so get a really wide square drain pan and lotsa paper towel.

Good luck. Let me know how it goes.

 

Good job on the instructions!

One thing I'd like to point out - don't run MERCON V in a transmission that requires MERCON, and don't run MERCON in a transmission that requires MERCON V. And don't mix the two, they are not compatible.

Mark

 

if you are going to go through all the trouble and take the trans case off you might as well install a shift kit (I did ) I got a B&M and it was pretty easy as long as you take your time and don't try and force parts. I notice a major difference between 1 and 2 and 2 to 3.

 

Reading some of the posts concerning shock load on the drivetrain it may not be such a wise idea to install a shift kit. Then again, others say because the shifts are shortened it lessens slip on the clutch plates so is better for the tranny.

I think the jury is still out on this one.

 

Yep, the jury is still out because they're out driving loving the shift kit.

 

Mark or anyone else
Just a few general questions on tranny fluid. I have a early 97 4.6L with the 4R70W (14 bolt pan, where as the E4OD has a 20 bolt pan) and on the dipstick it calls for Mercon. Now I thought I read on here that if you dropped the pan, changed the filter, and drained the TQ it was all right to refill with the Mercon V as this is what the newer 4R70W's run. I can not see what it would hurt as all your synthetic ATF's cover all three sometimes four ratings, meaning they cover Dextron,Mercon, MerconV, and sometimes Chysler ATF+3.
Also, I have noticed that all the bottles of mercon are labeled as Dextron/Mercon, is this what I should be looking for? I know that Dextron is directed toward GM and Mercon Ford, but should I be looking for something labeled Mercon only?
Just general stuff I that I am looking for a sure fire answer to. Thanks

 

I have a copy of Ford TSB 01-15-7, which covers ATF usage. A 1997 4R70W uses MERCON fluid, as you stated. Here is an interesting paragraph in that TSB:

Quote:

MERCON and MERCON V type fluids are not interchangeable. DO NOT mix MERCON and MERCON V. Use of a transmission fluid that indicates dual usage [MERCON and MERCON V] in an automatic transmission application requiring MERCON may cause transmission damage. Use of any fluid other than the recommended fluid may cause transmission damage.

The part about using the right fluid is clear to me. The part about dual rated MERCON and MERCON V is less clear, but transmissions are EXPENSIVE, so I tend to believe Ford when they say those fluids can cause transmission damage.

Almost any fluid that says MERCON will also say DEXRON. That's fine. It is the ones that say both MERCON and MERCON V that are problems with a transmission that should use MERCON.

Mark

 

Thanks for the direction. I'll change it as soon as the weather warms up and let you know the results.

 

Familyride: my comment wasn't meant to be offensive. It's just my opinion. I was thinking about getting a shift kit too. Then I just thought these trannies are expensive and why mess with it. There was another forum talking about shock loads but search is down. If the shift kit whiplashes your head on each gear change then your tranny/driveshaft/u-joints/rear axle probably will suffer for it once day.

Well, just a thought... you can understand my thinking though.

 

p_ferlow

I hope I didn't lead anyone to believe I was offended or anything, I'm not at all. I was just throwing in some humor and making my point that a kit is great!! I would think that you could go too far and cause damage. I don't think a shift kit could do it though.

I've got a Transgo and it's out past the 3rd level and it's fine. I tow a boat that weighs 7000-7200# and it shifts great withouth any problems even with the load.

 

I also have a 1997 4R70W that says Mercon on the dipstick. From comments on this board I also did a complete switch to Mercon V. Is this a problem? 10K and no problems with Mercon V.

 

See what I mean. Even Tom S, has seen the comments about switching over to Mecron V and then actaully did it. The reason I am so interested is that I that over on http://www.tccoa.com/articles/tranny/index.html I read that Mercon V can help with the tranny shudder some of us feel. I figured if a switch is possible and it helps with shudder than it's a good idea yet I was sheptical because of other TSB like Mark's and other confusing post's and things. Thanks

 

I'm more confused than before. Should I be using Mercon V or Mercon after reading the previous post by KYFordFreak?

 

It seems that the "official" Ford word is in the TSB. They issued it.

I have heard of many cases where MERCON V solved a shudder problem. I think a synthetic MERCON would also solve the problem. I recommend Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. That should take care of the shudder and off the best protection available for your transmission.

Mark