No reverse or over 20 mph

[retk9]

Newbe to the forum needing help. I have a '04 Expedition, 4.8l, 2wd. When I shift to reverse the engine will slightly rev like normal but reverse does not engage. In drive I have plenty power until I reach 20 mph. Once I go over 20 the engine revs up but my speed will not go over 20. No check engine light. Luck has it I am leaving in the morning for a business trip so will have to wait a couple days to get it worked on. But really curious what could cause this.

 

[stamp11127]

Check transmission fluid level. If it is correct then it is rebuilt transmission time. Sounds like solenoids or low pump pressure.

 

[retk9]

Thanks for the reply. Fluid level checks out just fine. That was the first thing I thought of. Just couldn't be that lucky

 

[stamp11127]

Remembered a few other things it could be, bands or clutches. Either way it requires going inside the trans. Rock Auto is carrying trans for these now.

 

[retk9]

I replaced the speed sensor and neutral safety switch but no luck. Still had no reverse and a couple of gears. With OD off I could get upto around 50 but lost 2nd and 3rd. I dropped the pan and about a half inch of metal shavings on the magnet and filter was filthy. A shop dropped the trany and found that a gear in the back end of the trany broke a part. When the gear went evidently it was a ripple effect through the rest. The shop owner said it was very uncommon for a Ford trany to go like this. $2,400 later and I got my truck back. May have been taken some but I am finally back on the road.

 

[stamp11127]

Glad to hear your back on the road. Anytime you see metal shavings in hydraulic fluids its bad news and expensive.
I'd recommend changing the radiator or going to a separate trans cooler. If the internal cooler fails it will take the trans out. Had it happen to me in the past.