97 Taurus Possible TCC Problem

I have a 1997 Taurus LX with 3.0L DOHC engine and AX4N Trans. It has 132k on the clock. When it's cold it jerks and stalls when put in reverse or drive, If I get it to go I can't stop. It's like trying to stop a standard shift without pushing the clutch. After it's warm it runs fine. I added tranny additive but it made it worse, Changed fluid and filter and its still like it was. Also I noticed that when I accelerate hard at about 5500-5700 rpm the charging light flashes just before it shifts.

When I changed the filter/fluid the condition of the fluid was not too bad, a little dark, slightly burnt, average gunk on magnet, and the pan was actually pretty clean.

Shift points are accurate and quick/firm as they should be, goes into gear just fine after it reaches opeatin temp.

any help would be greatly appreciated.

If you have access to a professional scan tool that can monitor the transmission codes and sensors, that might be a good place to start. Pay particular attention to the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) sensor readings and see if they seem reasonable. The TCC should not engage until after the tranny fluid reaches something like 135 degrees F. The shift firmness is also altered based on the TFT readings. If the TFT is out of range, it may be contributing to your problems.

-Rod