Transmission only goes in reverse

Welcome to 2CarPros.

Have you checked the shift linkage to make sure nothing is loose or disconnected? Check that on the transmission first. Make sure the vehicle is on a flat surface, parking brake on, and someone in the truck holding the brake. Then have them shift through the gears while you watch the shift linkage at the transmission to confirm it is working properly. This does have a shift cable, so something may have failed.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

I had originally put F-250 and it is a Ford but a Grumman body. I am not where the truck is at the moment but I believe the linkage was working properly.

Welcome back:

Since it does have a body upgrade, there is a good chance something is happening with the linkage. When you get the chance, confirm it is properly engaging the shift lever on the transmission. Let me know.

Joe

Okay, thank you sir.

Happy to help. Let me know what you find.

Joe

The linkage is good.

Welcome back:

If the linkage is working properly, it is most likely internal. Things such as solenoids, low line pressure, worn clutches, and so on are usually the root if this type of problem. Has the transmission ever been serviced? It could be as simple as a partially plugged transmission filter.

Let me know.

Joe

I have no idea. I recently purchased the vehicle, you think I should start by cleaning filter and changing fluid?
The fluid doesn't smell like it's burnt.

Honestly, if I had the vehicle here, I would remove the transmission pan to at least inspect it and determine if there is any evidence of hard part failure (metal shavings in the pan). As crazy as it sounds, a transmission filter can partially plug and cause low line pressure and lack of fluid circulation. So, that is where I would start, but I don't like spending other people's money, so I'll let that call up to you.

I'll be here. If you need anything, let me know.

Joe

Will a transmission from a 2002 F250 with a 5.0 fit my 1985 with a 5.8?

Welcome back:

No. They are different animals. The 02 is reliant on a transmission control module where as your's isn't. You may be better off rebuilding the one you have. The one in your vehicle can be one of three types. It could be a C5, C6, or AOD. Make sure you get the right one.

Joe

How can I tell which one I have?

Take a look at the transmission pan. I attached two pictures. The first shows an AOD pan gasket and the second a C6. They are shaped differently.