Shift solenoids

[Otto]

So I'm having a new solenoid b installed friday, and I'm just curious as to what exactly is a shift solenoid is and what it does. From what I've read they're part of the hydraulic system that lifts the clutch or something. Are these fairly important parts?

 

[98greenrangerguy]

The shift solenoids are located on the valve body and control the application of the bands inside the trans.

This thread has lots of good info with pics: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=140987