Technical Bulletin #261

Transmission: C5
Subject: Slipping on 1-2 shift after rebuild
Application: Ford
Issue Date: 1994

C5
Slipping on 1-2 Shift after Rebuild
When a C5 transmission is rebuilt with a disabled torque converter clutch (dummy lock-up), the shifts may be
very soft or slip. This is because there is typically more torque transmitted through the geartrain when the torque
converter is not locked up (torque multiplication).

If a check of the vacuum drip and line pressure rise is okay, try installing a C4 intermediate servo spring, piston
and cover assembly.

Use a piston and cover with a casting code of A or H for in-line six cylinder and V-8 engines. Use a piston and
cover with a casting code of W or Z for 4 cylinder and V-6 engines. These servos have been found to offer the
best results for the given applications. However, other servos and covers can be used if necessary. The larger the
apply surface of the piston, the firmer the 1-2 shift will be.

NOTE: The servo sizes from largest to smallest are C, H, A, R, B, Z, K, W (C and K are very rare).

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