The AX4S transaxle is installed in some 2000 model year Taurus/Sable vehicles and all 2000 model year Windstar vehicles. The AX4S transaxle will have a blue "PRIOR TO REPAIR" tag on the lower pan (Figure 1). The blue 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 US. or Canada).

ACTION

Prior to August 31, 2000, do not disassemble or repair these tagged AX4S transaxles. Perform the following diagnostic steps, record your findings, and contact Ford Motor Company on the toll-free phone number listed on the blue tag (1-800-331-5112). After August 31, 2000, follow the appropriate 2000 model year Workshop Manual for diagnosis and repair procedures.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

1. heck 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 Transaxle Range (TR) 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.

6. If transaxle requires service, call Ford Motor Company toll-free at 1-800-331-5112 (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, 5033000, 504000, 510000, 590000

A/T - AX4S Prior to Service Blue Repair Tag