Tranny Problems

[Joe_B_N_Vegas]

I have a 1996 Ford Windstar 3.8. The o/d light started blinking about a week ago. I figured it had found a problem but I had no scanner to get the code and with my job I never had the time. Now the tranny will shift real hard and then it seems like the o/d will kick in or it will slip out of a gear and the rpms will skyrocket and it takes roughly 30 seconds for the van will kick back in gear. HELP!!!!!!!

[ModMech]

It could be low fluid, burned fluid or an electrical problem in the solenoids. W/o pulling the codes, I'd be guessing as the the actual cause.

[fmac60]

Originally Posted by Joe_B_N_Vegas

I have a 1996 Ford Windstar 3.8. The o/d light started blinking about a week ago. I figured it had found a problem but I had no scanner to get the code and with my job I never had the time. Now the tranny will shift real hard and then it seems like the o/d will kick in or it will slip out of a gear and the rpms will skyrocket and it takes roughly 30 seconds for the van will kick back in gear. HELP!!!!!!!

I have the same problem on the same year Windstar. You can go to an Auto Zone autopart store and get them to read the fault code for you at no charge. In my case, the code call P0500 for a faulty vehicle speed sensor (VSS) $20.00, Very hard to replace. It is located on top of tranny (R/H side), under the engine. The shop where I took it removed R/H wheel and R/H rear engine mount to get to it, and charged me $85. No a bad deal , but did not solve the problem. I,m still researching. Please, let me know if you find the problem.