Automatic Transmission Problems

[Alacrity]

The fact the hold light wasn't flashing (but was working on the gearstick button) indicates the code was historic. i.e. in the ECU memory but not current & present.

The light will stay flashing if it sees a permanent fault (or until the key is cycled if not a permanent fault), however if the fault is not permanent it won’t flash, but a code will still be stored. For example if you disconnected the TPS with the key on the hold light would flash & a TPS code would be set & this would carry on no matter what you did with the key, but if you turn it off, re-connect it & switch on again the light wouldn't flash but the TPS code would still be in the ECU memory. Some ECU's on the more expensive cars 'self clean' codes if they don't see a re-occurrence of said fault within X amount of hours or so many key cycles. I somehow doubt the Bongo’s is that sophisticated so any codes in the ECU could have been there for some time.

Either way let’s hope a TPS is the fix for this one!

[Doone]

The Throttle Postion Sensor has been mentioned many times on the forum as it's caused a few problems.

Here's what the result of one search for Corblimeys experience with the THROTTLE POSTION SENSOR. If anyone wants to read more, put throttle position sensor or tps in the 'search' and it'll bring up a lot more.

According to the Factsheet in the members area HERE faults with the TPS are registered/stored as fault code 12. So if that fault code is not there, it's probably not the TPS.

[Fordfreda]

Hello All

I can't believe how busy you have all been in my absence.

I have the Freda booked in for a service with an automatic transmission specialist in Portsmouth. This includes a complete fluid change and new filter plus an inspection of the magnet and sump etc to determine whether there is any wear in there. After reading all of your replies (especially the experiences of danboy99 and dandywarhol) I am beginning to sway back to the idea that the TPS is intermittent when cold. Their problems have been so similar to mine.

If the service doesn't eliminate the problem then I will be looking for a second hand TPS. Where is the best place to purchace good quality second hand parts?

[Doone]

Let's hope your guys sort the problem for you. Otherwise, I've not read everything you've posted, but it's sensible to check for a fault code before buying a TPS... If there's no fault code, then it's not likely to be the TPS.

There are breakers advertising on Bongo Fury, but I'm not sure if any sell a used TPS.

[mikeonb4c]

Where is the best place to purchace good quality second hand parts?

ebygum32 and tonic are two members currently breaking Bongos - you could try PMing them to see if they still have theirs on offer. Simon Jones is also breaking a Bongo engine so may have one too.

[Fordfreda]

Freda booked in for transmission service on Friday. Hope all goes well because I am heading for Wembley on Sunday!!

[danboy99]

Good luck - hope it all goes well for you.

[Fordfreda]

Okay I have some very good news and that is the automatic transmission engineer tells me that the box was very clean inside considering that it probably has never had a fluid change. He has given the van a full transmission service and even fixed a small leak from the speedo.

I have not driven the van from cold so I don't know whether the problem has been resolved - but I am now pretty sure that the gearbox is not the reason for the reluctance to change up. No sticking valve. I believe that alacrity predicted this outcome - hats off to you sir!

Fingers-crossed for tomorrow mornings cold start, although it hasn't been that cold lately! I am absolutely loving the sun. Tomorrow I might even get my Vespa out of the garage for a spin along the seafront. Happy days.

[Doone]

That's good to hear. The factsheets do mention fault code 12 being present when the TPS is playing up, and your guy doesn't mention finding that code, so it looks like you might be OK.
Let us know how it is from cold.

[Fordfreda]

Hello

Thought I would report back after all of the help and advice you gave me.

As you know I took the van to Express Gearbox Company in Portsmouth for a fluid change, filter change, full transmission service. The result has been stunning in terms of how positive the box now changes through the gears. I have actually been driving around just to listen to those smooth changes. The gearbox was pretty clean inside anyway but the new fluid has made my Freda a real pleasure to drive.

I think if anyone is experience, what I would call a lazy transmission, then it might well be worth considering taking your Bongo/Freda to your local automatic transmission specialist. At this point I should also give a mention to alacrity and his specialist company in Eastbourne.

The one thing that I do not know because the weather has been so mild of late is whether the reluctance to change up from first has been cured. It only went bad on very cold mornings. Only time will tell!

Thanks to you all for your kindness.