Ford Explorer & A 1997 Neon

Question: Ford Explorer Stalls In Gear

Hey, my name's Pat, I could use your input if you have the time. I have a 1992 Ford Explorer, 4.0 liter V-6 and automatic transmission that needs attention. It died on me at a red light going to the gas station. I was very low but not out of gas. It idles fine in PARK but the instant I put it into any gear including reverse it shuts off. I did however, manage to power brake it to the station and back home.

Before this recent problem, I've been needing to warm it up first to get it to shift properly; also I've noticed that I've been losing transmission fluid but can't find a leak. I'm going to look at the vacuum (modulator?) on the transmission, but I really have no clue as to what's causing the problem. Any info would be helpful.

Answer:

I think I would have to look inside the valve body to find the cause of this problem. There is a torque converter clutch shuttle valve spring that's either hanging up or broken.

Loss of transmission fluid without any obvious leaks is most likely due to a bad Throttle Control Valve. If you remove the vacuum line and transmission fluid comes out, then you need to replace it. I would also recommend replacing the vacuum line as well.

Question: Neon Frozen Wheel

I have a 1997 Neon that has been sitting for about 3 months without being driven but now I want to get rid of it since it has done nothing but give me trouble. Well anyway, I went to drive it yesterday and the back right tire is frozen! Since I am getting rid of the piece of crap anyway, I cut the emergency brake thinking that was the problem... WRONG!! Still stuck, drum won't turn at all. Any suggestions?

Answer:

Nothing quick and easy, you will have to jack it up and take a look. Depending on where you cut the cable the parking brake could still be frozen. There is a metal sheath surrounding the cable where it goes through the backing plate that freezes the cable in place.

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