Flashing "tow haul"

[chrismccomb]

This just started today. Driving along just fine, 60 mph (in a 65 zone) and two things happened.

1. "Tow haul" starts flashing. (it was not engaged at the time)
2. "trans temp" gauge drops to flat.

I pulled over, shut the engine down, waited, started, and all was normal.

Any ideas?

Thanks in advance.



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[chrismccomb]

Wow, I can be oblivious...

Truck is a 2004 F350, Dually, 6.0

Thanks


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[ktmrider686]

scan it to read the codes
it is probly the trans fluid temp sensor, mine did that and i had to replace it.

[chrismccomb]

Great suggestion, thank you. Checked codes, and the sensor is indeed bad. Unfortunately, I'm on the road, towing a 5th wheel, and looking at the manual, this is a fix I can't do until I get home. (no tools, etc)

I'm guessing that if the trans temp sensor is going out, then towing in this condition is probably not smart.

Thoughts, anyone?

thx

[jesilvas]

If it's just the sensor, I wouldn't worry.
Heck, I'd rather not even have it. Once it gets to the red, you're already overheated.

[Term3]

I'm wondering if the PCM would have a different shift strategy and possibly defuel due to a failed trans temperature sender?

[chrismccomb]

Originally Posted by Term3

I'm wondering if the PCM would have a different shift strategy and possibly defuel due to a failed trans temperature sender?

that's the kind of possibility that concerns me. don't want to get out on I-20 East, where things are a little thin, and find myself laid up on the side of the road. If the nearby Ford dealer can get me first thing in the morning, and be fair and reasonable with his work, it's probably the right choice for me.

will see how it goes in the morning.

[chrismccomb]

Closing the loop.

Indeed a faulty trans temp sensor. btw, price on those has dropped a bunch: they are $20 now. Ford redesigned it.



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[jesilvas]

That's good. How much labor

I made my Samsung SGH-I997 send this.

[chrismccomb]

Ford dealer replaced the temp sensor, and changed the trans fluid (8 qts.) Total cost was ~$270.

fwiw, and I only have this one data point, I was pleased with the service at Rogers Ford in Midland. Terry service manager, Stefan diesel tech. Got me in first thing, out before noon, even with a bunch of PSDs in front of me.