I got a 1996 Ford Explorer from my son and daughter in law, it has some problems but the main issue is that the transmission will only change from 1-2 when you let off the accelerator, after that it does just fine, all other gears change smoothly without a hitch. Is there a shift sensor that is causing this and if so is it hard to fix? BTW this is a XLT with 4 wheel drive and a 4.0 engine.

 

Different solenoids in the trans will operate based on certain inputs among which are sent by a speed sensor. Since all the other shifts are working fine , I would think the speed sensor is functioning correctly. There may be a problem with one of the shift solenoids and that will require some detailed testing . Have you considered having the vehicle checked for any trans codes? Might be a good place to start.

 

I checked a while ago and came up with a p0756 code also came up with a code that says the engine has multiple misfires and oddly enough the engine runs good.

 

Sometimes a misfire is not always felt, but you can't fool the computer.
Someone still needs to check out the trans for a possible solenoid malfunction.

 

I'm thinking I'll service the transmission myself and replace the valve body with all sensors on it when I do, also the explorer hasn't been tuned up or had new plug wires in the 4 years my son and daughter in law has owned it. Hopefully doing a complete tune up will solve the misfire problem, tyvm for your help in this matter.

 

Replacement valve bodys can get $$$. Expensive. Might be cheaper in the long run to have some tests done to confirm if sol "B" is working properly.