I have a 1996 windstar with a 3.8 with approx 200,000 km
The transmission started acting up yesterday
when the car is hot it will stay in second gear and not shift up ,
My search on this forum seems to indicate that the problem may be a transmission sensor
I understand there may be two sensors 1-2 and 3-4 can anyone tell me where they are located and can they be accessed easily or if you have had the same problems is there some other likely cause for the problem and a solution
one suggestion is that the problem may be solved by a Transmission flush and filter change
I have only owned the van for 8 months so don't know the service history the fluid looks clean and bright red no burnt odor or browning
Any help or suggestions would be apprecaited
Roger

Just did another search and there was a suggestion the problem may be EGR related
Just replaced the PME which is attached to the EGR valve last month it was totally clogged up could this be a contributor to the problem
I have a spare EGR that I bought at the ame tiem as the PME out of a wrecked car Should I replace the EGR as well as the sensors
Should I get new sensors or can I use Wrecker used parts ??

I have a lot of info on this. You can call me in my office to discuss it. (There's too much to write.) 914-921-6900. (Mon.-Fri, 8-5) But I will leave early today. Ask for Fred

will call you on tuesday hopefully the car makes it through the weekend
thanks for your quick reply
Roger

Here is a post I made in another forum that relates to your problem.

98 3.8 GL without any warning suddenly started sticking in second gear when hot. Replaced the transmission/transaxle range sensor # F5DZ7F293BA $54.13 to resolve the problem. Repair involved removing two mounting bolts and one nut which secured the shift lever. Very easy repair.

You can pick up a haynes manual for $15 to find a picture of the location of the sensor. I understand the sensor can be had for $25 from Autozone.

Changed the TRS transmission range sensor and the problem dissapeared thanks to all who provided help and Guidance PS if your Spedometer is not working as well as the transmission not shifting into 3 -4 its probably the VSS Vehicle speed sensor not the TRS. Its a lot bigger job

Roger...can you tell me how you did the alignment. (I understand that when you replace the TRS, there is a special alignment tool needed.) Also, did you totally remove the air-filter housing to get at it ? Was it an easy job ? Thanks !

FredA
'xcuse me for buttin in.

On my '99, the DTR sensor had line-marks engraved on the sensor body. Just install loosely and align the marks while the selector is in neutral. Then secure the bolts.

Check your sensor before removing to see if the marks are there.

The "Tool"they are talking about is basicall apiece of card stock that bridges the bolt for the selector an ligns up with the slot cut into the body of the sensor beside the plug and a slot on the transmission body on the other side you may find the etch marks as stated by 12 ounce, depending on the year of your car generally the adjustment is pretty small you can also mark your old sensor and the transmission case with white out and match the marks on your new sensor
'Yes had to remove the air intake to get at it .
Roger