sp33dmachine

Hey, I'm new to this forum, and also new to ford trucks. Like the title states I'm haveing transmission problems when it's cold out. I have a 1997 F-150 Lariat, 180,xxx miles on it. My problem i'm having is when i start driving it when it's cold out it's doesnt want to shift like it should. It kind of stick in gears till it's warmed up,and i've put some a few miles on it, then it's back to normal.I was thinking about changing the filter, but I've also heard alot of horror stories about doing so, and the truck may not move after. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! I'm trying to stay away from buying a another transmission.

Kattumaram

The tranny has a fluid temperature sensor in it that tells the PCM to modify the line pressure and shift points to compensate for cold temps. Once the fluid is up to temp, the standard strategy is in force. The sensor also keeps the torque converter clutch locked out until the fluid is warmed up.

Your best bet is to have the tranny serviced by a good shop where the fluid in the torque converter is drained and the system refilled with Mercon V or ATF+4 (I'd go with the ATF+4) with a new filter and pan gasket.

Changing the filter will not cause any tranny problems. Flushing the tranny sometimes causes some troubles, so I would avoid having that service performed even if an "expert" recommends the procedure.

sp33dmachine

Thanks for the advise. I can handle the trans filter and fluid myself, but how is the draining and fill up of the of torQue converter done?