I have a 1994 Bronco 5.0 with E4OD that has a real problem at the low end. Basically, anytime the engine RPMs are below about 2100, I have no power at all, in any gear, at any speed. Once I get the engine above this threshold, the torque cranks in and everything runs well. The engine seems solid and I have already addressed things like fuel rail pressure, replacing sensors (MAF, TPS, IAT), etc. The computer is showing no codes and a NGS scanner showed nominal fuel trims. I did find a plugged EGR valve, said a-ha, and replaced it. Sadly, it made no difference. The computer is not chipped. One last point, I am about to open up the tranny to see if anything is going on there.

Any suggestions on what might be going on?

Thanks!

Paddy

 

What gears do you have? Should be like 3.55's or 3.73's. I doubt if you'd have 2.73's, maybe 3.31's. It'll be gutless with high gearing (low numbers) Do you have larger than stock tires? Check your base timing also. Base is most likely 10 degrees BTDC but set it at around 12 unless it starts to ping.
Possibly ignition related, coil, plugs, wires. Check for vacum leaks.

Course these are just guesses

 

Hello 2fords and thanks for the input.

I'll get the info you requested. I suspect the gearing is for high speed, not high torque. The "gutless" call is pretty much on target. The vacuum system looks pretty tight and the brake cleaner test was negative. I am working through the ignition system. Base timing is at 10 degrees and I just replaced the plugs. I have a wire kit on order. I wonder if the TFI module is somehow contributing.

It is significant that I have more HP at the wheel in 3rd gear above 2100 rpm than in 1st gear below 2100.

Due to other committments (time and money both) it will be a couple of weeks before I open the tranny. Maybe when I see a bunch of metal shavings in the pan I'll have a definitive answer.

Keep the faith.

Paddy

 

I had the same problem. I started playing around with the cable for the tranny. It is right next to the throttle cable, and all you have to do is move it one clip setting at a time to see where it will work best for you. Now, after motor swap, the tranny is down shifting when it should on or off cruise control. I used to have to mash the throttle my self in cruise control was on to go up a hill. You can try that. Just have to take the cover off and just need a screw driver to remove the clip.

 

Hello dadofdr. Apparently we both share suspicions regarding the tranny.

Apparently my truck is a bit unusual in that is has a 5.0 and the E4OD instead of the more common AODE. As I understand it, Ford used the AODE with the 5.0 and E4OD with the 5.8. The E4OD (or at least this one) is completely controlled by the computer. There is no kickdown cable to adjust.

While a delayed or absent downshift could definitely cause this problem, it does not explain the lack of low end power in 1st gear.
Regarding the earlier "gutless" observation, I suspect it is accurate. The motor is turning a touch less than 2000 RPM in overdrive at 70 mph. This smells a lot like my truck is geared for highway operation.

Thanks for the ideas!

Paddy