ISSUE:
The AX4S automatic transaxles in some 1994 Taurus, Sable and Continental vehicles will have an orange "DO NOT SERVICE" tag on the lower transmission oil pan, Figure 1. The orange tag refers to this TSB and provides a toll-free telephone number for further service direction. (Not applicable outside the U.S. or Canada.)

ACTION:
Prior to August 1, 1994, do not service these tagged AX4S transaxles. If there is a concern, perform the following diagnostic steps, record your findings and then contact Ford Motor Company at the toll-free number shown in Step 6. After August 1, 1994 follow the established diagnosis and repair procedures.

There is a new design bearing to support the rear sun gear and drum assembly. The bearing is located on the rear planet support, Figure 2, and replaces the bushing that was installed in the rear sun gear and drum assembly, Figure 3.

1. Check and record the transaxle fluid both cold and hot.

a. If low, fill to the proper level and check for a leak.

b. 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 Manual Lever Position Sensor (MLPS), Turbine Speed Sensor (TSS), Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) and transaxle top connector.

3. Perform Quick Test, using Rotunda New Generation Star (NGS) Tester 007-00500 or equivalent. Record all codes.

4. If no fault codes are present, go to Step 5. If fault codes are present, perform the required Pinpoint Tests in the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis Manual for any fault codes found and repair all non-transaxle codes.

5. Install Rotunda Transmission Tester 007-00085 and follow the appropriate tester instructions to determine if the concern is internal to the transaxle.

6. If the transaxle requires service, call toll-free 1-800-331-5112 (All U.S. and Canadian Dealers Only). Regular operating hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST. (A recorder is on 24 hours per day.)

NOTE:
DO NOT DISASSEMBLE ANY TRANSMISSION CONCERNS BEFORE CALLING THIS TOLL-FREE NUMBER.

Please note the following preparatory steps before calling.

^ All diagnostic information must be recorded before calling Ford Motor Company (fluid level cold and hot, EEC fault codes, transmission tester results, transaxle concern and transaxle tag information).

^ If the transaxle cannot be returned to Ford Motor Company, the current production planet support and rear sun gear and drum assembly (with bushing installed) can be used for service. Both parts must be replaced if replacement of either part is necessary.

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES: NONE
WARRANTY STATUS: INFORMATION ONLY
OASIS CODES:
501000, 502000, 503000, 503300, 504000, 510000, 597997, 702100

A/T - AX4S Orange Do Not Service Tag