I was traveling in the hi-way, when I can to a hill at 75mph and gave it gas and nothing(like its in neutral). Pulled to the side, no leak, no noise, no smell. Pulled back out, 1st, 2nd no problem, just revving going into 3rd. Got it home, pulled the pan, replaced shift solenoid, new filter and fluid. Fluid was bright red, no smell, pan and magnet were clean. Still nothing. Checked vacuum hoses, replaced them up around the engine. Still nothing. Air conditioning is blowing air better. I need help going further. Thank you.
04 5.4 won't switch into 3rd gear
- Thread starter Chefkris
- Start date
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whtbronco
Full Access Members
Well I'm sure it could be the 3rd gear clutch drum. Have you checked for transmission codes? That would be the next step I think.
There has been no codes thrown and I do not have enough knowledge to tear into it.
whtbronco
Full Access Members
There's a problem inside the transmission. Sounds like it's time to have someone look at it for you. Good luck.
Avian
Member
Likely the 3rd clutch drum has cracked. (4R70W)
Did you replace the 2-3 accumulator when you had the valve body out? Common problem for no 3rd gear. YouTube: Search “How To Remove & Replace Shift Accumulator 4R70W” (or 4R75W Accumulator location which is essentially the same). I think you can do it without removing the valve body again. 
Vincent Vega
Full Access Members
@Hondobud excellent advice. Also @Chefkris if you remove the accumulator to replace it, check to make sure the bore isn't scratched. Consider installing the upgrade kit from Sonnax if that appears to be the problem. Although a transmission shop is capable of testing and diagnosing whether it is the problem if its the internal clutch drum (the risk of that is alot of shops just want to sell poorly remanufactured transmissions).
