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DIYer here!
I've seen some posts on this topic. I didn't want to ask a question on a zombie thread, so here is a new one.
I just got a 2005 2D deluxe (4.0L V6, Automatic Transmission) with 166,000 miles. I believe it is the 5R55S automatic, 5-speed transmission.
Seems to shift fine. I've taken her up to about 70 mph, nice and smooth.
Reverse is another story.
When I shift to reverse and take my foot off the brake, it will roll with SOME power on a flat surface, and even up a low-grade incline, to a point. When I press on the gas it just revs.
From what I've seen in other threads, this is caused by a bad piston in the reverse servo in the solenoid pack.
Any other thoughts on diagnosing and repairing?
Should I try just cleaning the piston? My thought is to replace it.
Any other tips?
The reverse servo is not part of the solenoid pack. It's a separate part that can serviced independently from the rest of the internals. This YouTube link shows you how to access and remove it. The servo can be removed without removing any other component of the transmission other than the transmission pan. While you're in there you'll want to replace the filter and take apart the reverse servo for inspection and cleaning.
The reverse servo is not part of the solenoid pack. It's a separate part that can serviced independently from the rest of the internals. This YouTube link shows you how to access and remove it. The servo can be removed without removing any other component of the transmission other than the transmission pan. While you're in there you'll want to replace the filter and take apart the reverse servo for inspection and cleaning.
Thank you! this is very helpful.
Is there any reason I should remove the solenoid pack and valve body if the magnet and pan are clean?
the 5r55s is very temperamental. If it's not broke, don't fix it. The magnet will have some crud on it that's normal.
If you mess with the valve body you need to get new gaskets for it before you mess with it. Getting the solenoid pack out is a bit of a pain. There is a 10mm bolt that holds the electrical connector to the transmission. It's on the outside of the transmission but will require a ratcheting 10mm flex head box end wrench. You won't get a socket on it and there's not enough room for an open-end wrench.
the 5r55s is very temperamental. If it's not broke, don't fix it. The magnet will have some crud on it that's normal.
If you mess with the valve body you need to get new gaskets for it before you mess with it. Getting the solenoid pack out is a bit of a pain. There is a 10mm bolt that holds the electrical connector to the transmission. It's on the outside of the transmission but will require a ratcheting 10mm flex head box end wrench. You won't get a socket on it and there's not enough room for an open-end wrench.
I’ve got the reverse servo out (and the filter.) servo piston was very dirty. All clean now!
BUT, I found this broken metal piece in the pan.
please advise This was on the magnet. The magnet didn’t have any other metal, just gunk.
That looks like something from one of the transmission bands. If all forward gears work fine and taking apart the reverse servo doesn't fix your issue, it could be the reverse band. If you look at this image of the reverse band, that piece looks like it came from here. That would prevent the band from being clamped down against the drum to engage reverse. There is no fixing that. Only replacing it. Given the age of the tranny either do a complete rebuild or buy a remanufactured one and install it.
You nailed it!
I’m in the process of putting everything back together to see if cleaning the reverse servo helps.
thought I’d do an update to help anyone who might be servicing their own 5R55S. Here’s a look from the rear. Reverse servo located on the right corner, closest to camera Cleaned out the pan and mating surface. A good twist in either direction will release the spring and open the servo housing assembly. Here are the big reverse servo components after cleaning. Here’s a look up after removing the reverse servo. I believe that is the reverse band with the other side damaged piece, although it is a mystery to me how the broken piece made its way into the pan—possibly a previous owner who put it in the pan as a “bread crumb” for whoever would try to service in the future. Haha!
@Derf00 Great Diagnosis!
everything is back together, and no change.
looks like I’m going to be pulling the transmission and taking it in for a rebuild.
I’m also going to be shopping for an electric pump!
It's a Home Depot bug sprayer and if I recall a 3/8" ID clear hose with a ball valve a nipple on one end a quick release on the other end but, you can use a nipple on both ends. .For the end going into the tranny pan I used a 1/8" to 1/4" adapter bushing and a 1/4" MPT to 3/8 nipple. It was about $25 for parts about 10 years ago. It'll probably be $35 now. Tubing should be long enough so you can have the pump out from under the car.
To use it, I fill it with about 7 quarts of fluid, Keeping the valve turned to off, I pump it up a bit, connect it to the tranny pan adapter, then slowly turn the valve to on. It will probably take about 5.5 to 6 quarts or up to 6.5 if you removed the solenoid pack and valve body.
I've replaced the low/reverse band AND the low reverse drum. Everything seems to work well, SOMETIMES!
I'm having an issue with it engaging reverse. When I first start it up and shift to R, it takes about 15 seconds for it to engage. Everything runs fine after that.
When I try shifting from D to R, nothing... just idle.
When i return to P, then to R, wait 15 seconds--everything is fine!
What gives?
Do I need to adjust the linkage?
Is the valve body bad?
I've cleaned the reverse servo, it looks good.
any ideas?
No Reverse!
