Shifts into overdrive it seems like it slips

WORTHIN52

MEMBER
1997 FORD RANGER
4.0L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

I have a 97 ford ranger 4.0l v6 automatic Trans with overdrive. About a week ago I put a bottle of Bars Leak Trans Stop Leak in the transmission. About two days ago I noticed when the transmission shifts into overdrive it seems like it slips. But I’m not sure that is the right terminology because if I accelerate fairly hard it shifts fine. It’s almost like if I don’t accelerate hard it is hanging up in gear. I wonder if the Bars Leak has clogged a valve or done something else. I would greatly appreciate any help you can offer me.
Thank You
Todd Miller

6 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like you have a overdrive drum speed sensor that is going out here is the location so you can check it out. Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.

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Tuesday, May 4th, 2021 AT 10:07 AM

WORTHIN52

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35 POSTS

I have a scan tool and I ran a diagnose on it and didn’t come up with anything no error codes. The Bars Leak that I put in the Trans wasn’t Tran’s fluid it was a think stop leak additive. I wasn’t having this problem before I put the stop leak in the Trans.

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Tuesday, May 4th, 2021 AT 10:07 AM

HMAC300

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Only thing I can suggest is to try a fluid change maybe it will straighten it out. I never used most of those additives. Nor do many other mechanics.

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Tuesday, May 4th, 2021 AT 10:07 AM

WORTHIN52

MEMBER
35 POSTS

Do you know if it’s safe to drive at highway speeds 70mph with the overdrive turned off? Or will the transmission get to hot. I know it will affect my gas mileage.

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Tuesday, May 4th, 2021 AT 10:07 AM

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

Yes it's safe to drive at eway speeds your transmission will probably get worse as time goes by however. Not from the driving just from a failed part. But it's ok to drive.