My truck wont reverse. Should i try to fix it or take it in?

hagfish

My 1994 2wd Ford Ranger 2.3L automatic won't go in reverse. I heard a clunk backing up. It sounds like it could be the band in the transmission breaking. The transmission fluid is fine.

I'm not very knowledgeable, but i try to do my own work as much as possible to save money. In regards to this issue, do you think it is wise to try and fix this myself or should i just take it in?

Thanks

thecardoc3

I suspect you have the A4LD transmission. The bad news is you have to completely disassemble the transmission to reach the Low/Reverse Band. However, it is one of the easier transmissions to tear down and repair. There are a number of special tools required to service the transmission such as clutch piston seal protectors and tools to assist in assembling the clutch assemblies. With as much work as is necessary to replace the band and put it all back together it isn't advisable to ignore the rest of the clutches and seals. One tiny flaw and you have to redo everything, although admittedly it "should be" easier the second time. With a reasonable amount of experience, AND a mentor this would be very doable. Just trying to do one without supervisory support could have you learning things you didn't want to know.