1996 Taurus - VERY firm 1-2 shift

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I just acquired a very clean 1996 Taurus GL Wagon with 120K on the clock. The only apparent problem is that the 1-2 shift (AX4N transmission) is really "firm" at all times, even under light acceleration. Under moderate acceleration, the engine winds up to around 4 grand, then it shifts into second. The 2-3 shift is almost unnoticeable, and the only way you know it's in overdrive is to watch the tach (you can't even feel it). Fluid levels are correct, but I haven't yet changed the fluid or filter.

There is no transmission slippage of any kind, and other than the "firm" 1-2 shift, it drives well. It's as if the computer doesn't have a clue what the road speed is, or the throttle position - but there are no error codes and the MIL light isn't on. One more fact: the car sat for over 15 months before I got it, with a dead battery. It has a new battery now, is it possible that some factory programming got scrambled? My first throught was the TPS, and the throttle does seem a bit "touchy" from idle (very sensitive), but the TPS doesn't seem to be adjustable.

Any thoughts?

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[shorod]

Check the motor and transmission mounts. Maybe you have a mount with all the rubber isolation material beat out of it so the engine is free to flop around during the shifts.

The PCM should be altering the engine spark timing during shifts to reduce power and therfore reduce wear on the clutches.

-Rod

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Originally Posted by shorod

Check the motor and transmission mounts. Maybe you have a mount with all the rubber isolation material beat out of it so the engine is free to flop around during the shifts.

The PCM should be altering the engine spark timing during shifts to reduce power and therfore reduce wear on the clutches.

-Rod

Rod,

Thanks for the input. I had already checked the mounts, as I had problems with them in the past with my other 2 Taurus wagons. The mounts are fine, and the engine doesn't hardly move under acceleration.

Let me clarify: it doesn't "bang" into gear, but the 1-2 shift is very, very firm, unlike the typical sloppy Taurus "lazy" 1-2 shift. It's not an annoying jolt, but is still very noticable and I know it isn't right.

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