Ford’s debut of the 4R100 model has always been praiseworthy for adhering to one of the toughest builds out there. However, despite the quality build and ruggedness, a beaten-up tranny will show up problems in the long run, which is why keeping the track of signs is a must. So, before your truck’s pump fails, what are the common 4R100 pump failure symptoms?
The primary symptoms include strange or abrupt noises, abnormal gear shiftings, awful pungent smell, unable to move gears, rough engagements, and so on. Each sign has different causes behind it but all of them ultimately lead to a pump failure.
Keeping failure symptoms unattended for too long can permanently damage the internal parts of your heavy-duty truck. Hence, we’ve covered every sign/symptom of a bad pump failure along with the solutions and tips that’ll help you get over the issue itself. To learn more, read on.
8 Symptoms of When There’s a Ford 4R100 Pump Failure
Signs or symptoms are the calm subtle gesture before a storm, which in this case is a clear indication that your vehicle might have an underlying problem. In the instance of the Ford 4R100 pump failure, there are quite some signs that might startle you when you first come across it.
Here are the symptoms that indicate your 4R100 has a pump failure-
#1. Abrupt Strange Noise Coming From the Engine
The first common symptom you might come across is a strange whining noise from your engine. This might happen either when you’re starting your engine or in the middle of your drive. At times, the noises Transpiring are often unidentifiable.
For instance, it can sound like humming, tires thudding each other, or marbles crashing onto each other. With acceleration, the noise either starts or slows down but the strange noise is still prevalent.
The reason why this happens is-
- During the operation of the transmission, friction takes place between the worn-down components, which ultimately causes a pump failure.
- The transmission has been beaten down or used for a long time without maintenance.
- Worn-out flex plate. This component is usually responsible for transmitting power to the transmission directly from the engine.
#2. Temperature is Spiking Higher Than Normal
When you notice your vehicle suddenly spiking out of the normal temperature, then your 4R100 has a failure pump issue. Driving for too long can increase the temperature slightly higher, but in this case, it can even cross 190°C, which is quite a lot of heat.
You can easily find out the overheating when you check the solenoid body, which has a transmission temperature sensor that lets you know exactly how overheated your vehicle is.
Overheating takes place for-
- Beaten up or worn-out torque converter.
- Internal damage has been prevalent for a good amount of time.
#3. Constant Hiccups or Jerking Terribly
In this case, when you start your engine, your vehicle will start to jerk tremendously. The worst case is when your vehicle has constant hiccups while you’re driving. This incident is also a sign that indicates a 4R100 pump failure.
The reason why your vehicle vibrates is-
- Disconnected spark plugs. There are a lot of spark plugs that connect themselves to the transmission. Hence, a malfunction I’m this area can cause the vibration.
- A clogged or damaged IAC or Idle Air Control is another reason why your vehicle is vibrating.
#4. An Awful Pungent Smell Transpires While Driving
Nothing is worse and more threatening than a sudden outburst of pungent smell, especially while you’re driving. It’s possible to come across awful smells during meddling with the engine as well.
This happens for the following reasons, which are responsible for a pump failure-
- When the transmission releases fluid uncontrollably, especially the fluid it uses for lubrication.
- When the transmission juice has been flowing for a good amount of time and almost burned due to the high temperature.
- If you spot abnormal fluid color, then that’s another reason why you’re smelling that awful pungent smell.
#5. Transmission Control Indicator Light (TCIL) or Computer Codes Pops up
Ford has a built-in overdrive check engine light indicator, which lights up when there’s a malfunction going on with the transmission. When the TCIL or the Transmission Control Indicator flashes, there’s a big chance your 4R100 has a pump failure.
Even more so, when computer codes are showing up. During pump failure, you’ll see a code P1700 or P1702, which indicates a transmission system failure.
TCIL also lights up when-
- The mass flow sensor doesn’t operate normally, which leads to pump error.
- When there’s a circuit malfunction of the DTR or Digital Transmission Range.
- When transmission fluid temperature reaches 40°F
#6. Abnormal Transmission Slips
When there’s a pump failure, the necessary pressure isn’t sent to the transmission system and ends up slipping gears. This is the reason why your vehicle might be slipping transmissions now and then.
You might also notice how the gears abnormally jump from one place to another, which is a clear indication of transmission slippage and pump failure.
#7. Sudden or Gradual Fluid Leakage
The most concerning sign you might come across is when you find leaks or oil or fluids within your engine. Sometimes, you might find a red liquid flowing out of your vehicle vehemently, which is a big indication of blown-up transmission. This happens when the fluids have been out of date and completely gone bad.
If you don’t notice any leakage and instead feel the transmission’s working engagement has lessened dramatically, then it means your transmission fluids are leaking, but you just haven’t noticed yet.
#8. Loss of Gear Engagement
When there are any abnormalities with your gear engagement, be sure it’s a 4R100 pump failure symptom. In one case, you’ll notice the gear has a frozen state. Meaning, you won’t be able to change the gears at all.
Another state is when they collide with each other and break apart for the lack of lubrication. The same situation can also be one of the reasons behind the strange noises coming from your engine.
What Should You Do When You Encounter 4r100 Pump Failure Symptoms?
Even though all the symptoms mentioned above indicate a pump failure, it’s only fair to say there’s no other solution than to get a replacement. However, there are other actions you can take. For instance-
Diagnose and Inspect
Any symptom or issue of a vehicle calls for a diagnosis no matter the indication. Here’s how you can diagnose-
- Check the solenoid blocks. Here all the key components are jolted together and anything abnormal can warn you.
- Check the transmission fluid seals and inspect whether there’s any abnormal color or constant leakage.
- Check the TCIL or computer codes and see if any codes popped up.
- Check the IAC valves and inspect whether it’s functioning or has broken wirings.
- Manually inspect the temperature and especially look into the TFT sensor whether it’s showing any numbers or not.
Rebuild
Pump failure always calls for repair and replacement, but a better option is getting a rebuild. That’s because rebuilding offers you more services and better lookups compared to replacements you’ll do yourself.
If you go to a well-known re-manufacturing company, they’ll inspect the cause, look into the symptom, replace the damaged parts and upgrade the worn-out pieces altogether.
How Much are the Rebuild Costings of the 4r100 Pump Failure?
The best thing about the rebuilds is the warranty cards. Along with getting replacements and new components, you’re also getting a warranty card that lets you enjoy free maintenance.
In most cases, the warranty is for about 2-3 years. When it comes to the cost, on average a transmission pump doesn’t cost too much and only bills about $450 and approximately $1200 including the labor costs.
For the full package of maintenance, meddling, and upgrades, it can cost you around $2000-$2500 altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What fails on the 4R100 transmission?
Transmission failure is a common problem with the 4R100, which also is a reason behind the pump failure. However, the common reasons why they fail are either a solenoid box issue or a failed torque converter. Either of the two immediately fails the 4R100 transmission.
How reliable is the 4R100 transmission?
After Ford introduced the 4R100 in the market, it immediately got recognized as one of the most reliable transmission builds. That’s because it has a 4×4 heart ratio and can go on a 1000 torque converter speed with millions of rotations in one go. However, since everything isn’t always perfect, the 4R100 transmission fails too.
How long does a 4R100 transmission last?
Ford’s 4R100 is well known for its strong and reliable transmission. The transmission is so well out that it can last from 100,000 to almost 250,000 miles until rebuilt or replaced.
Rebuilds or replacements will stay put for the same mileage as well. However, make sure you put maintenance care into it.
How to replace front pump on 4r100 transmission >> Check out the video below:
Final Words
When you first come across the 4R100 pump failure symptoms, it might startle you but don’t worry since now you know what you should do. However, no matter what, never take any symptoms lightly and always inspect with care.
If you’re confused and don’t know what to do you can always contact the manufacturers and get a rebuild when your pump failure takes place. Don’t worry as after the rebuild or repair, you’ll be able to fly that beast again like the old days!
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