It appears that I may be afflicted with the common ailment of the speed sensor dying on my 99 Escort. In addition to driving the computer nuts (2..3..4..12..6..14..8..10 mph on the VSS PID makes for some nasty transmission hunting), I also find that the speedometer occasionally acts batty as well (either stops around 10 mph or acts jumpy around there). Thus far, any attempts to diagnose a problem being other than the in sensor itself have turned up nothing, so unless the new VSS connector I have on order fixes the problem, it looks I get the painful wallet emptying experience of having the VSS itself replaced (yeah, it's one of those "HOW THE F* DO YOU GET THE DAMNED THING OUT?" speed sensors). I've already tried a combination of PB Blaster, Vise Grips, hammer/chisel, yet she's stuck in there real good and ain't goin anywhere (won't even consider using force on the plastic part as I don't need a basket case--it's still drivable now, albeit irritating) :uhoh:

What does everyone else do in this situation?

I just yesterday I replaced the VSS (F7CZ-17271-AA = $50) on a '97 'scort. I was trying to fix a flacky speedometer ... didn't help. It was little problem... one retaining screw with 10mm hex head. I bought the new part before removing the old. The sensor came out by going straight "up". Used a bit of Vaseline on new part. Did remove one underbody crossmember for a bit more access for my fat arms. 30 - 45 min.

This tranny also has a turbine speed sensor ... don't confused them. The VSS is near the RH drive shaft.