gatrus

Hi guys I'm new to this forum and really need help. The speedometer on my 87 taurus stops working after a few minutes of driving and almost at the same time my gears stop changing. Someone told me it was a senor causing the same problem. Does anyone know what is the name of the sensor and also where is it located so I can do it myself
thanks

tbird100636

Sounds like a bad VSS to me. The magnetic shaft inside of the sensor breaks causing no signal to the PCM, and breaking the link to the speedometer cable so the speedometer won't work. You can see it by looking down in back of the engine, primarily from the left side.

Here is a picture. Ignore the X through the speedo cable and the note about the electronic cluster. You don't have an electronic cluster. Note- you didn't mention if this was a 3.0L V6. This is geared around that engine, but the 2.5L I4 was also used, which has a different trans. and sensor.

__________________
Master ASE Certified L1 Chrysler Technician- still a Ford fan at heart.
1964 Thunderbird Hardtop- Chantily Beige- 390 FE 4V V8-Uncle's Car
1966 Thunderbird Convertible- Red- 390 FE 4V V8- Uncle's other car- waiting for paint and body work!!!
1967 Mustang Convertible- Blue- 289 V8- helping a friend re-assemble this classic

gatrus

Thanks tbird100636, for the reply, its a 3 liter engine. Do you think I can do it myself?

tbird100636

Yes. With the engine cold reach down behind and below the engine. Disconnect the electrical connector, the speedo. cable just pulls out, remove the bolt and it slides out. If the new VSS comes with a gear check the color and tooth count. If not the same or no gear is found reove the geat from the old sensor by removing the clip and sliding it off. Installation is reverse of removal. Make sure to push the cable in until it clicks.

__________________
Master ASE Certified L1 Chrysler Technician- still a Ford fan at heart.
1964 Thunderbird Hardtop- Chantily Beige- 390 FE 4V V8-Uncle's Car
1966 Thunderbird Convertible- Red- 390 FE 4V V8- Uncle's other car- waiting for paint and body work!!!
1967 Mustang Convertible- Blue- 289 V8- helping a friend re-assemble this classic