Automatic acts like a straight drive

[opie1969]

I have a 2002 ranger 2WD with a automatic trans. The problem is that sometimes when I am coming to a stop the truck will act like a straight drive and die like I did not push the clutch in and the overdrive light will start flashing but I can let it sit for a day or so and it will do fine for awhile. Is there sensor going but or something else?

 

[exbass94]

Sounds like the torque converter clutch isn't disengaging like it should. A flashing OD light means the trans senses a problem and is storing a DTC in the computer. Use a scan tool (one that can read transmission codes, not all of them do) to see what the code is, and go from there.

 

[adsm08]

Exbass is right. The lock-up clutch in the converter isn't disengaging. You let it sit for a day, things cool off, and whatever is making it stick is letting go.

Get the codes, maybe get the fluid changed if it hasn't been done in a while. Every 30,000 miles is the recommended interval. Try to find a place that uses a BG or Total Trans Service (TTS) machine. Those will give the best results because they use the transmissions fluid pump to do the exchange.

In the mean time, throwing it in N as you come to a stop should keep the engine from dying.

 

[feellnfroggy]

Before you come to a stop shift the transmission out of overdrive. Or dont shift into overdrive in the first place. The TC lock-up engages with the OD to help with pulling and fuel mileage.

 

[v8318cid]

Does anyone know if the T/C engages in any earlier gears? I have seen other vendor trans that engage in 3rd, or even 2nd if cooling is needed. For example, I have an 08 Impala that shifts : 1st -> 2nd -> 3rd -> 50% lockup (varies with load) -> 4th/OD -> Full lockup.
Percentages are estimates, but you can watch the tach change as if the trans were a 6 speed even though its only a 4. BTW, GM 4t65e is a piece of crap...24k miles and it started slipping.

 

[tanbuddy]

I test drove a 96 ranger with a 4.o and 4 speed auto. Norml driving it locked up in 3rd(dr) about 40 mph, then shifted into 4th(od) around 50mph and kept the converer lockd. The truck was geared high so im sure ithappens at aloer seed in other trucks.
If i went full throttle from a stop, it shifted into 2nd gear at 45 mph, then lockd the converter around 50 mph.

I dont know what u mean about the converter being locked 50 %? I believe its eather locked in or unlocked. If the converter is locked and slipping your gona burn the trans real quick.