Ford Repair: 1996 Taurus Transmission, taurus 3, ford taurus

Question
I have a 1996 ford taurus 3.0L , GL. The transmission will brely engage first or reverse, as I tap the accelerator bringing the rpm briefly from 800 to 1200 to 1500 rpm the transmission grabs but then slips as rpm increases slightly. Sometimes I can drive the vehicle normally when the transmission starts out in second gear. All other upper gear shifting is normal. I used to work as  a ford mechanic but I didnt get the chance to dig into transmissions and cant believe this transmission costs $1900.00 rebuilt! I have heard of the 1st and reverse band servo/ piston cracking. There was even a bulletin about it can you elaborate? Thanks a bunch. Brad.

Answer
Brad,

All odds point to a broken first/reverse band or broken piston.  When the fluid gets to the apply piston it just goes through the broken part and does not engage it.  Without inspection I can't be positive but it is common.  I couldn't find the bulliten that you spoke of but that does not mean it does not exist.

Hope this helps

Sek