Automatic Transmission - CD4E: Maintenance Ford Escape I facelift

Fluid Pump

The pump provides the volume of fluid required to charge the torque converter, main control valve body, cooling system, lubrication system and hydraulic apply devices. The transaxle uses a positive displacement gear and crescent-type pump which is shaft-driven by the torque converter.

Fluid Level and Filter

Fluid from the sump area (formed by the transaxle case and converter housing) flows through a filter to the pump. The filter has a recirculation port connected to the main control area of the case and receives fluid from the main regulator exhaust. This provides fluid under pressure to aid the pump in higher efficiency operation. A thermostatic fluid control valve prevents foaming of fluid by maintaining a sump level below the rotating components. The 2-piece chain drive cover prevents foaming by not allowing the chain to rotate in the fluid. A magnet on the underside of the chain cover collects unwanted magnetic material.

Transmission Fluid Temperature (TFT) Sensor

The TFT sensor is located on the solenoid valve body. It is a temperature-sensitive device called a thermistor. The resistance value of the TFT sensor will vary with temperature. The PCM monitors the voltage across the TFT sensor to determine the temperature of the transmission fluid. The PCM uses this signal to determine shift scheduling and to control line pressure for cold and hot temperature operation. The PCM also inhibits TCC operation at low transmission temperature and adjusts electronic pressure control (EPC) pressures for temperature.

Check Fluid Level and Condition

Note. Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic, during hot weather or while pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.

The transmission fluid level should be checked at normal operating temperatures, 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F), on a level surface. You can check the fluid level without driving if the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F). When the vehicle has not been driven, and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F), the fluid level should be between the holes on the indicator. If the transmission fluid is to be checked when the fluid is at room temperature, the fluid level indicator could indicate that fluid should be added if the indicator is misread. If fluid is added at this time, an overfill condition could result when the vehicle reaches operating temperature of 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F).

Fluid Level Check

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. With your foot on the brake, start the engine and move the range selector lever through all the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
3. Place the range selector in PARK (P) and leave the engine running.
4. Remove the fluid level indicator and wipe it clean with a clean cloth.
5. Install the fluid level indicator, making sure that it is fully seated in the filler tube.
6. Remove the fluid level indicator. The fluid should be in the designated areas for normal and room temperature.

Scheme 65

High Fluid Level

Fluid levels above the safe range may result in transmission failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift or engagement concerns and possible damage. High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition. A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of fluid from the vent tube and possible transmission malfunction and/or damage. If an overfill reading is indicated, drain and refill the transmission.

Low Fluid Level

Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the fluid level indicator, or not on the fluid level indicator and the outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). A low fluid level could result in poor transmission engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transmission seals or gaskets.

Adding Fluid

Before adding fluid make sure that the correct type is being used. The type of fluid that should be used is found on the fluid level indicator, on the handle, in the owner manual and in the Specification section in this article.

If fluid needs to be added, add fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube. Do not overfill the fluid.

Fluid Condition Check

1. Check the fluid level.
2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be dark reddish, not brown or black.
3. Hold the fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
5. If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant in the transmission. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
6. If fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan, the transmission must be disassembled and completely cleaned. This includes the torque converter and cooler lines.
7. Carry out diagnostic checks and adjustments. For additional information, refer to «DIAGNOSIS BY SYMPTOM»(ref-232215-S03959909232006051600000) .

Transmission Fluid Cooler - Backflushing and Cleaning

1. Backflush any contaminates out of the oil-to-air cooler by connecting the flushing machine pressure line to number 1 and the return line to number 2. After 5 minutes, stop the machine, reverse the hoses and repeat the flushing.
2. Backflush any contaminants out of the radiator in-tank cooler by connecting the flushing machine pressure line to number 2 and the return line to number 3. After 5 minutes, stop the machine, reverse the hoses and repeat the flushing.
3. Using compressed air, blow through the coolers until all fluid is removed.

Draining

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to «JACKING AND LIFTING»(ref-232183) .
2. Remove the transaxle drain plug.

Scheme 66

1. Using a small amount of thread sealant on the threads, install the transaxle drain plug. Tighten to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft).
2. Fill the transaxle with clean automatic transmission fluid.
3. Start the engine and run through all the gears and check fluid level.