shifting issue & grinding/scraping noise

[srmatherne]

I have 2 issues I can't seem to figure out...2001 Disco 2 (54k w/ ACE)

1) The transmission seems to prematurely shift into 4th gear. This isn't a big problem, however in some instances it seem as though it skips 3rd entirely. Even with the Sport mode on it seems to want to shift into 4th too early. However, if I put the transmission in "3" it seems to behave fine. Also, it doesn't seem to kick down as quickly as it should. By that I mean you really have to put the pedal to the floor before it decides to kick down from 4th...and when it does I think it is actually dropping down into 2nd! The transmission filter was replaced about 1k ago, along w/ the fluid in the pan. Actually I replaced the fluid in the pan twice in an effort to get more of the old stuff out of the torque converter.

2) I have this annoying scraping noise which I believe is coming from the front wheel area somewhere (can't really tell which side but I think drivers) when I make right turns. What I've been able to determine is that the problem is more prevalent when the weather and truck are cold, and that it doesn't always occur. Before anyone asks about my front driveshaft u-joints, they have all been replaced/rebuilt with the GBR kit. I originally thought the noise was from a rotor mudguard, however I can't find any scratch marks on the wheels (but I haven't ruled this out). Then I was thinking about a swaybar (or ACE torsion bar) bushing somewhere...but they all look pretty good - at least to my untrained eye.

Thoughts anyone? Thanks in advance.

 

[discomike]

Most likely it is your VSS causeing this to happen, and based on your driving in third, this pretty well confirms it.
As for your noise. It is not your ACE. Will it make the noise if you are standing still and turn the wheel back and forth?
Have you looked on your radius arms to see if you have any rub marks? It would be good to inspect all the bushing, make sure everything is tight and nothing warn.
Mike J.
99 D2 with ACE

 

[srmatherne]

Thanks Mike,

Unfortunately my wife has the truck and is out-of-town untill Thursday evening so I'll give the front end suspension I thorough inspection this weekend. Where is the best place to get a new VSS between now and this weekend? Also, does anyone have the DIY for the VSS replacement complete with pictures? It sure has been tough here recently owning a Rover and having DiscoWeb.org down... In the meantime I have a 97 TJ on axle stands in the garage to keep me occupied (rebuilding the rear axle and brakes - at a snails pace)

Thanks again,
Stephen Matherne

 

[discomike]

Either the dealer or better yet Atlantic British. Check around and see if you can find any testing procedures just to make sure.
Mike J.

 

[joey]

Is this Disco new to you? If so, the Transmission will need to adapt to your type of driving. The Disco Transmission computer is adaptive, you may just need to reset it. (not sure if I remember how) check www.disco2.com

As far as the VSS if that is the issue, I have the replace doc with pics if you need it. Just shoot me an email (listed in profile).

 

[joey]

http://www.disco2.com/tech/trans/

 

[srmatherne]

No the vehicle isn't new to me...purchased it brand-new from the Dealer in 2001. Thanks for offering up that DIY - email sent per your request. Regarding the transmission ECU reset, I can't seem to locate any instructions on the disco2.com site. Anywhere else I might look?

Regards,
Stephen Matherne

 

[discomike]

Don't worry about the reset, it doesn't pretain to what you are experiencing. By the way, do you get a check engine light at any time.
Mike J.
Mike J.

 

[srmatherne]

Well there is a bit more to the story concerning lights...About a month ago I dropped the truck off to have the transmission filter replaced and the BG transmission flush service performed. When I picked it up the mechanic informed me that he could not get the BG transmission flush equipment connected as the fittings didn't mesh up. However he did drop the pan, replace the filter & gasket, and refill - and proceed to charge me way too much. Sucks b/c the only reason I brought it to the shop at all was for the BG flush.

About a week later I was driving on a hilly road and began to notice the whole premature shifting to 4th thing. Well about 5 miles later I get a check engine light. Now I'm concerned as I think the shop has somehow hosed my ZF. Based on feedback from others on Discoweb I located a local indie rover mechanic who read & cleared the fault (some sort of incorrect gear ratio code - sorry don't remember exactly) and was of the opinion that the code was typically caused by a misfire and inquired about plugs & wires. Timing was comical as I had just ordered new 8mm magnecors and platinum 4+ plugs but had yet to install them. I told him that the transmission fluid & filter had recently been changed however he didn't seem concerned. I was a bit concerned and upon my return home proceeded to remove the trans fill plug and discover the trans seemed to be overfilled (lots drained out the fill/level plug). I then drained the pan and refilled per the shop manual instructions twice in an effort to swap as much trans fluid as possible. In addition I had that local rover guy install the new plugs and wires (was happy to have someone else do the wires). Haven't had a code since (except when I SeaFoam'd her last week - but was expected).

Sorry for the long post but I'm hoping the background helps.

Regards,
Stephen Matherne

 

[discomike]

I would still lean towards the VSS and or the MAF, either can doe would your experiencing especially the VSS.
The next couple of times it happens, drive the s--t out of it with the idea that you want it to throw another code. A few foot to the floor runs while it is acting up should get you smore more exact info.
Mike J.