2002 Ford Explorer fluid

FLUID ON THE BRAIN

MEMBER
2002 FORD EXPLORER
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

Transmission started slipping & causes engine to revs really high. The only thing I know of that I can tacle myself is checking fluid. Upon removing the inner ("Allen") check/fill plug while keeping the outer drain plug stationary, fluid started to POUR out of the hole. By all accounts, this is a sign that the fluid is overfilled, but that can't happen just out of the blue. Car was level during this procedure. Any ideas?

1 Reply

DAVE H

MECHANIC
13,383 POSTS

CHECKING FLUID LEVEL
Transmission
Using a scan tool, monitor the Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) using PID: TFT. Start the vehicle. Engine idle speed should be approximately 650 RPM.
Run engine until the recommended TFT is between 81-120 °F (27-49 °C). The fluid level can be checked above 122 °F (50 °C) using this procedure.
Move the gearshift lever slowly, stopping in each gear. Place gearshift lever in the Park position. Raise and support the vehicle. Set vehicle as close to level as possible.
If needed, the Drive Pinion Angle Gauge (205-025), can be used to assist in leveling the vehicle. See Fig. 4. Place a drain pan under the transmission.
NOTE:It will be necessary to hold the drain plug (larger plug) with a wrench when removing the fluid level indicator plug.

With the transmission in the Park position and the engine running, use a 3/16" Allen key to remove the fluid level indicator plug. See Fig. 5. Allow the fluid to drain. Wait approximately one minute.
When the fluid comes out as a thin stream or a drip, it is at the correct level. If no fluid comes out of the hole, fluid will need to be added. Continue with this procedure. Install the Fluid Fill Tool (307-437), into the transmission fluid pan. See Fig. 6.
Using the Oil Suction Gun (303-D104), extract approximately one pint of clean ATF from a suitable container. Using the oil suction gun and fluid fill tool, fill the transmission with clean ATF. See Fig. 7. Remove the oil suction gun.
Allow fluid to drain. Wait approximately one minute. When fluid comes out as a thin stream or drip, the fluid is at correct level. If no fluid drains from the plug, continue adding clean ATF in 1/2-pint increments until fluid starts to drain from the plug.
Remove the fluid fill tool from the pan. Reinstall the fluid level indicator plug and tighten to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS. Lower the vehicle. Remove scan tool. Check the operation of the transmission and inspect for leaks.

Soft Or Slipping Shifts (Some Or All)

Check the following: fluid level and condition, filter assembly (plugged), incorrect line pressure (high or low), valve body (SSA, SSB, SSC, SSD, PC-A, PC-B, PC-C) solenoids, valve body (sticking valves), incorrectly tightened valve body bolts (cross-leaks), oil pump assembly, coast clutch assembly, center support, intermediate band and servo, direct clutch assembly, forward clutch assembly, reverse band and servo and/or transmission case for damage.