No power, sputters and shuts off

1993 FORD E-SERIES VAN
250,000 MILES • 5.8L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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DADDIO309
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
It starts okay, when put into drive it will barely move. If put into 1st or 2nd gear it accelerates okay. Can be put into drive once vehicle speed passes 30 MPH or so.
But it will lose power and eventually shut off if attempting to climb a hill.
Rapid acceleration will result in sputter and engine shutting off.
If stopped at a speed bump, you must back up and get a "running start" to go over bump.
Apr 27, 2022 at 10:48 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

If it is working when you shift it, the first thing I would recommend is to check the fluid level and condition. If it is low, it can affect line pressure in the transmission. Placing it in low 1 or 2 locks a clutch drum forcing the gear to operate. Based on your description, it sounds like the transmission is slipping.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-and-add-transmission-fluid

Let me know what you find. Also, pay attention to the color of the fluid, if it has a burnt smell, and when the last time it was serviced.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 27, 2022 at 1:48 PM
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DADDIO309
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Okay, there is also the matter of a backfire. I'll record a short video for you.
Apr 28, 2022 at 5:29 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

That sounds more engine-related than transmission. Record it as you mentioned and upload it so I can hear what is happening. Additionally, I would like you to check for diagnostic trouble codes. This vehicle has an OBD1 system that doesn't require a scanner to retrieve codes. Follow this link and let me know the results:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/ford-lincoln-mercury-obd1-1995-and-earlier-diagnostic-trouble-code-definition-and-retrieval

I will watch for your reply. Also, let me know if you have questions.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 28, 2022 at 11:24 AM
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DADDIO309
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I did the test and my test light just stayed on constantly. No blinking. I'm not sure how to submit a video but I'll keep trying.
May 4, 2022 at 8:28 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Just to confirm. The data link connector is under the hood on this vehicle. See pic 2 for location.

Next, how long did you wait for the codes to appear? Some codes will require up to 30 seconds before they are indicated. See pic 1

Let me know.

Joe

Let me know.
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May 4, 2022 at 12:28 PM
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