G'day guys,

I have a 98 EL auto with 130,000kms on the clock.

When the car is cold, all up and down gear changes are smooth. Although o a hot day or when the car starts to get hot, the gear changes become clunky. It's especially clunky from 1st to 2nd and vice-versa, although also does it to a lesser extent throughout the other gears. It's like it hold it between gears for a split second before 'dropping' it into the next gear.

I was thinking the S5 solenoid, although wasn't 100% sure as I know nothing about automatics.

Cheers.

sounds like the S5.

I've just had a chat with a transmission specialist here in Canberra. He has informed me that it does not sound like the S5 solenoid, as it would more than likely do it regardless of whether the car is hot or cold. Is this true?

In addition to this, he also stated that it would more than likely be a piston in the gearbox with a hairline crack, resulting in a gearbox rebuild.

The car only has 133,000kms and was only ever owner by an elderly man, thus not thrashed. Does this sound like a likel scenario, or does it seem as though he may be trying to rip me off?

Sounds like hes trying to F**K you over.

Get yourself a manual, and give the auto a service and an S5 Solenoid.

Its probably never been done, as Ford specified they were "sealed for life" and didn't need servicing.

They do.

Thanks for the heads up mate. So in your opinion, are the symptoms I have describe consistent with a faulty S5 solenoid?

Thanks again buddy - much appreciated!

Definitely get a few more opinions. Xpvanman, a member here,should be able 2 shed alot of light on it.

I have the exact same thing happen sometimes, I opened the tranny thinking something maybe wrong and changed all the fluid, and its still the same. Been that way for 5 years and still shifts hard sometimes. I wouldnt`t worry about it unless it slips or wont shift properly, otherwise you are just throwing $$$ in the drain. Next time when its hot flatten it between 1-2 and if it shifts smooth under full throttle its most likely ok.