Tranny doesn't work right, and no speedometer or odometer movement

[Thyintimidator3]

I have read many posts, and still not clear on my issue. We have a 98 Winstar, and bought it used a year ago. It has 150+k on it, and runs great. We started having issues with intermitant movement in the speedometer. Then, as it got progressively worse, we lost the speedometer and odometer completely(but only when acting up), and the tranny shifts hard, or not at all. However, when acting up, we can manually shift it. We never got the check engine light, till the first time we lost the speedometer and odometer. We went out to harbor freight, and bought the good code machine that tells you what it is, not just a code. It came up with camshaft position sensor and speed sensor. We changed the speed sensor, and now it doesn't shift at all on its own, and sometimes not even when manually shifting. We now have 4 codes in the computer. After messing with it for 4 hours last night, we left it alone, and this morning, it ran and worked fine for about 7 miles of driving. Then right back to acting up. To me and my father in-law (whom is pretty knowledgable with vehicles), it sounds to us like a bad relay somewhere's, but we have no idea on what and where. Any help from all of you readers, would be greatly apprieciated.

[CnlK]

Did speedo function return after installation of the VSS? Have you tried unplugging the TRS - trannsmission range selector switch aka neutral safety switch. From some of the posts I've read, unplug with engine running then go for a short drive, if tranny then shifts, a little on the hard side but everything else is OK replace switch. There are several threads on replacement and alignment of TRS. Other basics OK? tranny fluid level and color.

[garync1]

Just wanted to know was the VSS replaced with a Motorcraft one or after market.?? The reason I asked I have had no luck on any Fords I worked on using after market sensors. I have changed sensors out using OEM sensors and had better results.

[mtsav8or]

I had a similar problem caused by the brake pressure switch leaking fluid on the electical connectors directly below and shorting them out. After replacing the switch and cleaning the connectors I've had not had these problems.

[northern piper]

I'd be looking at the TRS as mentioned above. I have a 2000 but had similar symptoms as you describe and the trs was the cause. It too got damaged, my feeling anyway, by the leaking brake pressure switch which is directly above it. I used an aftermarket part as the OEM wasn't available when I need to do the repair. It's been running fine since the repair, now 7 months ago.

Piper