1998 Ford Explorer Transmission works then quits working

1998 FORD EXPLORER
112,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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KELLERRACING
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
When I put my explorer in gear, forward or reverse, it goes alright for a minute, but then starts slipping and then completely stops pulling. After I turn the engine off for a few minutes, the transmission will pull again for a minute and then stops pulling again.
I was told that there might be a plastic part inside that has broken and is getting sucked into a pick-up line, thus causing this problem.
Does this sound reasonable, and what is my next step?
Feb 16, 2010 at 8:11 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 POSTS
I know when the explorer was introduced in the early 90's, they had a retaining clip that would break and cause problems. Is the trans fluid clean and full? Has the check engine light ever come on?

Let me know.
Joe
Feb 17, 2010 at 12:48 AM
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KELLERRACING
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The fluid is clean. Darkish, but not burned. The engine check light has never come on. This transmission problem happened, and within 25 minutes I had it parked so that I wouldn't do any further damage. Jim
Feb 19, 2010 at 2:56 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 POSTS
Either the trans control module is bad or a retaining clip has broken on one of the clutch packs.
Feb 24, 2010 at 3:00 PM
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