transmission currently does not engage when placed in Drive or in 1st gear

2001 FORD RANGER
115,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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CAN_SEVERN
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My transmission currently does not engage when placed in Drive or in 1st gear. Fluids are full and are red - not burnt. I get around by starting out in 2nd and when I pass 20 mph I shift into drive. If I slow to below 15 mph or stop I need to go back to 2nd until I accelerate again.I'm hoping to avoid a replacement or rebuild. I can often do auto repairs myself - but - I stink with doing a diagnoses. Thanks for any advise.
May 30, 2010 at 3:26 PM
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OBXAUTOMEDIC
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Hello,

Check the Linkage, if look fine then you will need to pull tranny pan and check the Shift Selonoids and for mechanical damage.


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May 4, 2021 at 9:39 AM
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CAN_SEVERN
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I think I can tackle this issue - I purchased one solenoid from the auto parts store. A graphic I found shows four parts - in the graphic there are two items numbered "1". My issue is that only first gear does not engage. I can move forward in second gear then shift to Drive for speed above twenty mph. Which solenoid do I replace?


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/533132_2001_RANGER_Transmison_1.jpg

May 4, 2021 at 9:39 AM
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OBXAUTOMEDIC
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Ok, well so far I haven't been able to acurately locate the 1 - 2 Shift Solenoid. I believe it is the one closest to the front of vehicle, but let me do a little more checking.

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May 4, 2021 at 9:39 AM