I have a 1994 Ford E150 van .... 5.8 L ... will not go in reverse. Could this be a major or minor problem ?

Question

Transmission ....

Answer 1

It's probably going to be a major problem but with out proper diagnostics it is impossible to tell, if you are mechanically inclined and have access to tools get your hands on a service manual. It will tell you how to diagnose the problem, you will need to retrieve codes from the PCM since the tranny is electronically controlled and will also need to check line pressures. If you are lucky the problem is just a sticking valve or solenoid, if not it could be the coast clutch or reverse clutch at which case the transmission needs to be torn down and gone through. If this sounds to be over your head I would recommend taking it to your Ford dealer, they can diag the problem for you and give you an estimate for repairs. Most transmission shops seem to have the "throw a new transmission at it and ask questions later" attitude going. Another option would be to buy a re-manufactured trans from your local parts house and install it yourself, just remember to get a couple of cans of transmission cooler flush and clean the lines and cooler out when you are doing the job, a transmission swap is nothing tough. You might be able to find a used transmission but considering the age of the vehicle it won't be easy to find one worth the time to install. Hope this helps.

Answer 2

Well, you will always have to find a parking space where you can pull through. Think of the inconvienice of pushing the big damn thing if you have to get it to back up. But on a mechanical side, if the reverse gear is out, that indicates a posible list of serious mechanial problems. I would say that your other grears are close to calling it quits too. In Virginia, that truck would not pass the state inspection.

Answer 3

reverse is gone in your trannie, could last days or months.

Time for a rebuild.