Ford Repair: Transmission, powertrain control module, powertrain control module pcm

Question
I have a 2000 Ranger 3.0 with an automatic transmission.
The overdrive light comes on and flashes after a hard shift out of first gear. When I stop and shut off the truck and restart it the light goes out until it has another hard shift out of 1st gear. I have some control over the hard shift by holding steady on the throtle when it is ready to shift. Backing off the throtle seem to make it worst.
Is it the control solenoid? If so were is it located on the truck.


Answer
The Overdrive Light flashes or stays on to indicate a problem inside of the Transmission.  It sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in the Powertrain Control Module (PCM).  It resets when the ignition is turned off.  I would scan the system to retrieve the code(s) before making any repairs.  A bad Shift Solenoid is a good guess.  There are six of them on a 4R44E transmission.  They are mounted the the Main Control (Valve Body) and can be replaced by removing the Transmission Pan and Filter.

I hope this helps,
Dave