Flashing O/D and Hard Shifting

[fireant]

I posted this over in 4.0 too:

96 4.0, 2WD, automatic

The other day I started getting a flashing O/D light, and some hard shifting, especially 1-2 and 2-1. The speedometer works fine, and turning O/D off didnt help.

I called my local Ford dealer, and they said I'd have to leave it there for a whole day just to get them to test the error code in the computer.

I do have a scangauge II that I'm going to plug into it, but I dont know if the error will show up or not.

My question is, should I pre-emptively replace the VSS for this? I mean the speedo works, but seeing threads where the VSS was the culprit gives me some hope that I dont need major work to fix this.

Also, could I haul a bed-full of DRY wood mulch about 50 miles with this O/D light flashing? I really need to get this stuff into the garden ASAP and I have no other way to get it home... I'm guessing its no more than 300lbs tops.

 

[fireant]

Today I replaced the VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor) located right near where the drive shaft exits the transmission. It was the original sensor from 1996 so it couldn't hurt to replace it, right?

I took it out for a spin and immediately noticed the shifting is now butter smooth instead of harsh. A quick jaunt down the highway and the OD light no longer flashes.

Hope this helps someone in the future.

 

[adsm08]

Don't double post stuff please.