raymos50

Wanted to get some thoughts on what might cause a shudder when my 2002 Escape XLT 3.0 shifts into and out of overdrive. This first started around 70k miles but was then remedied by a flush. However, during the service, the mechanic failed to realize that the filter is not supposed to be replaced on this model so they had to order a new screen special from the dealer. It started to happen again around 130k miles but another 2 flushes later it is still happening. I am wondering if I should replace the internal screen again to get things back to normal but I would expect the flush to clear the screen. The local dealer could find nothing wrong but was happy to charge for connecting the car to his computer. I can manage it a bit by disabling the overdrive when driving at slower speeds and enabling it (allowing it to shift up) only when RPMs are higher.

3M and some others make a kit you can use to polish the plastic lenses and bring them back to near-new clarity.

As the doctor says, if it hurts when you do that, don't do that : ) The noise you hear is normal if you are on solid pavement but you should not have the 4x4 selector set to anything other than Auto unless you are on a slippery surface. What you are hearing is the limited slip differential slipping to accommodate the difference in tire rotations as you back up. It may not do this in forward motion since the clutch slips more often in that mode than in reverse. I hope this helps!

I have a 2002 XLT 3.0 AWD that had a similar issue but was not leaking at the oil separator. Mine (and likely all others too) had a deteriorated (softened) elbow at the front valve cover. When the engine was running, it would collapse under the negative pressure (aka vacuum). This resulted in poor performance and oil leaking while driving. It did not leak in the garage while parked so it was very difficult to find the cause. I did find some information on another forum that pointed to an issue with the PCV, which I decided to replace. In the process of removing the old PCV, which I never was able to remove, I found the aforementioned elbow. Unfortunately it must be purchases as part of a larger assembly of parts. You can find it at FordParts.com under Emission Control > Crankcase Ventilation System. Part number for the assembly on mine is 6758A. The parts guy at the dealer said this is a very common problem. I find it hard to believe that Ford has not been proactive at fixing such a minor issue with a dedicated part number and/or improved part that does not deteriorate as this part does. The rest of the system uses much more solid components. Hopefully this information helps others with this problem