Stall Speed Test

2005 Ford Taurus SEL, 4D SedanSECTION Stall Speed Test
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ and 2011 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING: Block all wheels, set the parking brake and firmly apply the service brake to reduce the risk of vehicle movement during this procedure. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.

The Stall Speed Test checks:

  • Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) operation and installation.
  • holding ability of the forward clutch.
  • reverse clutch (the low-reverse bands).
  • planetary One-Way Clutch (OWC).
  • engine driveability concerns.

Conduct this test with the engine coolant and transmission fluid at correct levels and at normal operating temperature.

Apply the park brake firmly for each Stall Speed Test.

  1. Find the specified stall rpm for the vehicle, see the STALL SPEED TABLEΒ . Use a grease pencil to mark the rpm on the dial of a tachometer.
    STALL SPEED

    Engine rpm
    3.5L 1,878-2,678
  2. Connect a scan tool.
  3. NOTE: If the rpm recorded by the scan tool exceeds the maximum limits, release the accelerator pedal immediately because clutch or band slippage is indicated.
  4. In each of the following range REVERSE, DRIVE and LOW, press the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it just long enough to let the engine get to Wide Open Throttle (WOT). Do not hold the throttle open for more than 5 seconds at a time.
  5. Note the results in each range.
  6. After each range, move the selector lever to NEUTRAL and run the engine at 1,000 rpm for about 15 seconds to cool the torque converter before the next test.
  7. Use the stall speed diagnosis table for corrective actions.
  8. NOTE: The stall speed in REVERSE will be lower.
  9. If stall speeds were too high, see the STALL SPEED TABLEΒ . If stall speeds were too low, first check engine idle speed and tune up. If engine is OK, remove torque converter and check TCCΒ  for slippage.
PRESSURE DIAGNOSTIC TABLE

Test Results Possible Source
Values of both DRIVE and REVERSE ranges are lower than the standards
  • Insufficient engine power
  • Torque converter stator One-Way Clutch (OWC) slipping
Only the value of DRIVE range is higher than the standards
  • Low line pressure. Shift control solenoid assembly failure, primary regulator valve failure
  • Valve body failure (hydraulic pressure system)
  • C1 clutch slipping
  • OWC F1 failure
Only the value of REVERSE range is higher than the standards
  • Low line pressure. Shift control solenoid assembly failure, primary regulator valve failure
  • Valve body failure (hydraulic pressure system)
  • C3 clutch failure
  • B2 brake failure
Values of both DRIVE and REVERSE ranges are higher than the standards
  • Low line pressure. Shift control solenoid assembly failure, primary regulator valve failure
  • Primary regulator valve failure
  • Oil pump failure
  • Oil strainer clogging
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.