Modified 99

This problem only happens when it is COLD, so far. I'm in eastern Nebraska for a short job from Texas. When I shift into reverse on very cold days the engine quits. It will start right back up without any hesitation. The CEL does not light up. Today it is about 40 and it did not happen. I'm open to any ideas.

 

RickMN

Fords of this vintage are known to have corrosion problems in the transmission range selector (TRS). That's the new version of the old "neutral safety switch." The TRS has several resistors in it and as you move the shift lever, the computer sees different voltages based on the resistance value of that gear. If corrosion sets up inside the connector, the computer gets values that are way out of range and that can prevent starting and cause stalling. Unplug the connector to the TRS and look for green gunk. If you see any, you've found the problem. Use electrical contact cleaner and clean out the gunk. Then apply a coating of dielectric grease to the connection and try it again. Sometimes it's easier and cheaper to replace the whole TRS.

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