General shift mechanism problems:
1. This deals with checking and adjusting the shift linkage on automatic transmissions. Common problems which may be attributed to poorly adjusted linkage are:
A) Engine starting in gears other than Park or Neutral
B) Indicator on shifter pointing to a gear other than the one actually being selected.
C) Vehicle moves when in Park.
Transmission won’t downshift with gas pedal pressed to floor:
1. There are many probable causes for the above problems, but the home mechanic should be concerned with only one possibility – fluid level.
2. Before taking the vehicle to a repair shop, check the level and condition of the fluid. Correct fluid level as necessary or change the fluid and filter if needed. If the problem persists, have a professional diagnose the probable cause.
3. If the transmission shifts late and the shifts are harsh, suspect a faulty vacuum diaphragm.
Fluid Leakage:
1. Automatic transmission fluid is a deep red color. Fluid leaks should not be confused with engine oil, which can easily be blown by airflow to the transmission.
2. To pinpoint a leak, first remove all built-up dirt and grime from around the transmission. Degreasing agents and/or steam cleaning will achieve this. With the underside clean, drive the vehicle at Low speeds so air flow will not blow the leak far from its source. Raise the vehicle and determine where the leak is coming from. Common areas of leakage are:
A) Pan: Tighten the mounting bolts and/or replace the pan gasket as necessary.
B) Filler pipe: Replace the rubber seal where the pipe enters the transmission case.
C) Transmission oil lines: Tighten the connectors where the lines enter the transmission case and/or replace the lines.
D) Vent pipe: Transmission overfilled and/or water in fluid.
E) Speedometer connector: Replace the O-ring where the speedometer cable enters the transmission case.
Note: If you added extended breather tubes on your transmission, make sure there aren’t any sags in the tube. A droop or sag in the tube can allow fluid to collect and block the vent tube. This can cause the fluid to be forced out of the transmission. This can even cause the fluid to be forced out through the filler tube.
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.
Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.