Ford Repair: 1998 Ford Windstar, fuel level sensor, clutch disk

Question
Hello.

I have a 98 Windstar GL, 3.8L. It has 84,000 miles on it. I've had an issue for some time regarding the van "shimmying" (if that is a word) after each gear shift and at around 60 MPH on the highway. The CEL is on and my mechanic gave me two codes, which are PO743 & PO460.  I was able to get the car past e-check by disconnecting the negative cable for 20 minutes and driving it to the test center. As soon as I was out of the test center, the CEL light came back on. It passed the e-check prior to the light coming back on.

When I drive the van, the "Shimmying" or hesitation is very noticeable after each gear shift, but even as you drive it, it seems to have a jerky motion to it.

My question is, with the torque converter error, is it the torque converter itself or is it an electrical issue. I have already put $500 in to have the following done: 1) pump shaft, 2) pump bearing, 3) TCC valve, 4) solenoid. Needless to say, it didn't help.

I really don't want to have the tranny torn down in order to figure out what the fix is. If I do that, I may as well put in a new tranny and do the fuel level sensor while I'm at it. That's about $2500.

Any idea where to start?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Chris


Answer
Chris,

When the other tranny work was done did they install a new torque converter? If so they need to replace it under warranty. What your feeling is the clutch disk inside the torque converter slipping and it "chatters". The converter unlocks before each shift then re-locks after the shift. A good mechanic with a scan tool will watch the converter slip RPM in data to confirm it.  At idle, slip will equal engine RPM, but when locked should be zero. If it goes up even to 50 RPM it will chatter bad. Yes, the transmission must me removed to replace the converter, but no major disassembly is needed. I know an aftermarket torque converter sells around $100 and labor to install should be 4 to 5 hours of labor. Find a good local garage that is ASE certified and BBB members or at least with no complaints. Let them do the work and try to avoid tranny shops who want to sell you a new tranny.