engine dies when you put it in gear

[kwstatton]

I have a 1998 Windstar, which idles just fine but the minute you put it in gear the van dies just as if you turned the key off. I have had the engine scanned and got the following codes, P1537, P1538, P1744. I was told by a friend that it could be a tranny problem. I took it to a tranny shop and had it scanned again. they think it might be the pump in the tranny. Any other ideas.

Thanks,
kwstatton

[way2old]

I would guess, from the codes, either a torque converter or the torque converter clutch solenoid is hanging on. As I said, this is a SWAG from your info.

[kwstatton]

Thanks waytoold, for the input. thats what the tranny shop thought too. I was trying to get another opinion before forking out all that money to have my tranny pulled.

Thanks again,
kwstatton

[musketb]

My wifes 95 was doing that, and after replacing a couple of items, I found out that the plug on the pass. inner fender was loose.

[CoachKarl]

Musketb, could you please elaborate on the "plug on the pass. inner fender"? This sort of fix could save this guy a bundle.

Karl

[musketb]

I don't know exactly what it's for, but it is about a 2" long plug on the right apron up at the hood hinge end.