I understand the manual change with filter made the difference over your previous flush. So the difference is the filter and or the DexronIII. I've heard the filters rarely clog but I've got hope with your situation. I would like to replace the EPC solenoid while I'm in there. The only hold up is I don't know whats involved and can't seem to locat any pictures or instruction on the procedure. Any suggestions?

 

I've developed a good working relationship with a local Ford Dealership's parts dept. Recently, I needed a turn signal electrical connector which had cracked and caused my turn signals to stop working. I was able to view the electrical skematic of the steering column and we were able to match the connector.

Without sounding too long winded, ask the local Ford parts dept. representative to pull up the transmission skematic specifically to located the EPC solenoid for your truck. From what I understand, it is not difficult to change. At 15,000 miles, I had both the shift solenoid changed and the TC solenoid changed. I didn't notice any difference in shift quality at that time.

Good luck getting the skematic/EPC solenoid part and keep us posted.

jeff

 

Unfortunately the schematic in the parts system was pretty poor on the subject. However it is fairly obvious with the pan down. I did the change last night along with full fluid change w/TC.
I haven't driven it much yet but it seems much smoother so far. I may never know if the solenoid or the fluid change made the difference but if shifting remains smooth it will be the best $290 I ever spent.
$200 Solenoid
$80 Valvoline Max Life
$10 cold twelver + ice

Thanks for all the help!

 

That's good news. I hope it works long term.

The cold twelver and ice always works for me as well.
Jeff

 

CDeHeer97:

What is the status a year later? Did this do the trick?

Jeff

 

Sitting at 151,000 on the odoometer now and still shifting smooth. With the chip back in it's noticeably more firm but but dosen't bang into second like it was. I'm due for another fluidchange any day, just waiting for a weekend that's not 100+ heat index to do so.
I suspect the solenoid was the culprit at this point.
Thanks for asking and I hope this post helps others.

 

oe812,

What reason did the independent tranny guy give for using dextron III? Is it still working?

Sidewinder

 

Probably because the indy tranny shop only has Dextron III. He services Daimler Chrys and all makes. He builds racing TC's but I am skeptical. Dextron III and Mercon V, by definition, have different chemical properties. Viscosity Index is different for one.

I am not going to risk it. I will follow the comments made in this forum and will use Mercon V; probably Castrol Mercon V. I will also consult with Baumann Engineering regarding other mods as suggested.

Jeff

 

Sounds like my POS E4OD that no one had an answer to. The only difference is that mine only has rear breaking upshifts when it has warmed up, most noticeably after Interstate travel. I changed the fluid and filter in it. Personally I think something is screwed up with the TC. There is a slight fast paced ticking sound coming from the TC when it has warmed up as well. I dont drive my truck all that much so I can deal with it.