1999 Explorer O/D blinking w/ codes 733 & 741 - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

momofallboys · 04-23-2009, 18:17

I have a 99 explorer xlt 4.0l sohc. After reaching about the speed of 40mph the O/D off light begins to blink, my rpms are running about 2.5. We took it in and were told we needed a new tranny! In my search for a rebuilt/used tranny I have come upon sites like this and now Im not 100% that the mechanics are telling me the truth. Ive seen that problems could be grounded wire, computer problem, voltage regulator, to change the filter. Does anyone have any input on my situation. Do I have to replace my tranny or should I try these other things first and suck it up if I really do have a transmission problem? Has anyone had a problem like this or these codes?

**360ci** · 04-26-2009, 14:57

Mechanic is no longer the proper term. Too many mistakes have been filed over the years so now if you go to school to learn about vehicles you graduate as a "Technician". There are many different technicians, such as Brakes, A/C, etc. There's no one true "mechanic" anymore. I find it strange myself, but in a way, no one person can know EVERYTHING there is about a vehicle and the majority of it is speculation.

Anyway. I suggest this: Start cheap. Replace your TPS (throttle position sensor) and IAC (idle air controller). They'll be located around the throttle body and run $40 each (approx). A faulty TPS is commonly mistaken for a failing transmission. A faulty TPS will allow gear hunting and can cause a number of engine codes to pop up. IAC mostly controls idle speed when stopped in gear or in 'park'.

I found this online as per code 741. It's in relation to a Toyota model, but nonetheless should give you an idea of what's going on with your ride. Worst case is that you do need a transmission, but be sure to get a second and third opinion on the matter. Some places will diagnose for free, if not a small fee.

Question: 2005 Toyota Corolla Automatic Have trouble code P0741 for torque converter clutch solenoid performance. Engine light keep on and off for the last 40,000 miles (now the odo is 102,873 miles). Is this trans or ECU problems? It looks like ecu? because if this is a trans problem, my corolla trans will be dead by now. What happened if I did not do/fix anything? thanks. - Lehert, September 2008

Answer: Hi Lehert. If the Check Engine Light is coming on and off and there seems to be no symptoms then it leads me to believe it's an intermittent fault. Now diagnosing whether it's a problem inside the transmission or electrical isn't something we can do over the Internet :-) However with that said, it's not necessarily true to say the tranny would have been dead by now. If there is an internal problem you may have still shortened the transmission's lifespan even though it hasn't died. Have you checked the transmission fluid level? When was the fluid changed last? If you haven't taken the vehicle in to get the trouble code looked at I suspect you may not be keeping up with the transmission service levels as well. Regardless, if you decide to not fix the problem, the transmission may last a week, a year, or a decade. It's too hard to tell without physically diagnosing the problem. If you'd like to do a bit of work yourself, then start with the easy stuff, grab a repair manual, check the fluid level, and check all the wiring & connectors to/from the transmission for starters. My personal recommendation to you is to take it to a qualified transmission specialist (or the dealer) and pay the 1 or 2 hour diagnosis charge. In the long run it might save you money. Good luck!