94 ford taurus idling rough, high temp

When first starting up and shifting into gear, there is a delay. Sometimes, when stopped at a light, the engine will idle higher and raise the temp, and feel rough. At this time, when taking off, the car feels as if it has no power. Is this a tranny issue? No engine light is on and have put in water-stop in fuel as well as injector cleaner before moving onto parts repair.

Welcome to the forum!

If the engine idle is changing and it feels rough, I don't think you have a transmission problem. I suspect you either have a vacuum leak or the car needs a tune up. The tune up should include a fuel filter. Inspect the intake air tubing to make sure there are no holes or cracks and that it is connected correctly and securely. Unfortunately your OBD-I systems is not as good at helping diagnose ignition misfires versus vacuum leaks as an OBD-II system would be.

Even though I'm comfortable stating the transmission is not at the root of this issue, don't neglect the transmission. If it is due for a transmission fluid and filter change, do so. It's relatively inexpensive (compared to a tranny rebuilt or replacement vehicle) and often only considered when there is a problem. That's the wrong time to perform preventive maintenance.

-Rod