Repair Guide: Resolve Transmission Issue on 1997 Ford Explorer

Vehicle Repair Guide

Repair Guide: Resolve Transmission Issue on 1997 Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer, manufactured in 1997, sometimes has a common but less typical issue related to the transmission system known as "Delayed Shifts." This document will provide a step-by-step guide to diagnose and fix this issue.

Required Tools

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Step 1: Start the vehicle, let it run for a few minutes to reach its operating temperature.
  2. Step 2: Take a short drive to confirm the delayed shift issue. This typically presents itself as the vehicle hesitating or being slow to engage the gear shift.

Repair Steps

  1. Step 1: Safely lift the vehicle on jack stands. Ensure the car is safely positioned before proceeding.
  2. Step 2: Locate the transmission fluid pan and loosen the bolts to allow the fluid to drain out into a suitable container.
  3. Step 3: Once the fluid is drained, remove the pan completely by removing the remaining bolts. In this step, be careful not to damage the pan gasket unless replacing it.
  4. Step 4: Remove the old transmission filter. It's typically held in by a few screws that can be removed with a screwdriver. Again, be careful not to damage any components.
  5. Step 5: Install the new transmission filter from your filter kit. Make sure it's securely fastened and in the correct position.
  6. Step 6: Reattach the transmission fluid pan, ensuring the gasket is properly seated and the bolts are securely tightened.
  7. Step 7: Lower the vehicle from the jack stands. Once the vehicle is safe and stable, use a transmission fluid pump to fill the transmission with new fluid. Refer to the vehicle's manual to know the correct amount of fluid to add.

Considerations and Tips