The AX4N transaxle is installed in some 2000 model year Taurus/Sable vehicles and all 2000 model year Continental vehicles. Some AX4N transaxles will have a green "PRIOR TO REPAIR" tag on the lower pan (Figure 1). The green tag refers to this TSB article and provides a toll-free phone number to be used by all U.S. and Canadian dealers for further service direction (not applicable outside the U.S. or Canada).

ACTION

Prior to August 31, 2000, do not disassemble or repair these tagged AX4N transaxles. Perform the following diagnostic steps, record your findings, and contact Ford Motor Company on the toll-free phone number listed on the green tag (1-800-349-2946). After August 31, 2000, follow the appropriate 2000 model year Workshop Manual for diagnosis and repair procedures.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

1. Check and record transaxle fluid level. If low, fill with MERCON(T)V Automatic Transmission Fluid (XT-5-QM) to the proper level and check for leakage. If a leak is the only concern, call the toll-free number prior to repair.

2. Check the harness connectors for proper installation at the Transmission Range (TA) sensor, Turbine Shaft Speed (TSS) sensor, Output Shaft Speed (OSS) sensor, and transaxle top connector.

3. Perform EEC system Quick Test and record all codes.

4. If no fault codes are present, go to Step 5. If fault codes are present, perform the required Pinpoint Test in the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) Service Manual for any fault code received and repair all non-transaxle codes. Then verify if the transaxle symptom still exists.

5. If the transaxle symptom exists, install a Transmission Tester (Rotunda 007-00085) and follow the appropriate tester instructions to determine if the concern is internal to the transaxle.

NOTE
THE TRANSMISSION TESTER (ROTUNDA 007-00085) MUST INCLUDE THE UPDATE (DONE IN 1994, CABLE, OVERLAY AND INTERNAL SOFTWARE) TO PROPERLY DIAGNOSE AN AX4N TRANSAXLE.

6. If transaxle requires service call Ford Motor Company toll-free at 1-800-349-2946 (U.S. and Canadian Dealers only). Do not disassemble any transaxle prior to calling this number. All diagnostic information must be recorded before calling Ford Motor Company (fluid level. EEC fault codes, transaxle tester results, transaxle concern, and transaxle I.D. tag information).

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE

WARRANTY STATUS: Eligible Under The Provisions Of Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage

OPERATION / DESCRIPTION / TIME

DEALER CODING

OASIS CODES: 501000, 502000, 503000, 503300, 504000, 510000, 590000

Transaxle - AX4N Prior to Service Green Repair Tag