Power train: automatic transmissionRecall 78V-256 · Ford and Lincoln vehicles
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recall 78V-256 covers 7,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles for a power train: automatic transmission problem, reported to NHTSA on November 27, 1978.
Source: NHTSA recall 78V256000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS IN WHICH THE PARKING PAWL WAS NOT HEAT-TREATED. DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION, A PARKING PAWL THAT HAS NOT BEEN HEAT-TREATED COULD BECOME DEFORMED OR WORN TO THE POINT THAT THE TRANSMISSION WILL NOT LOCK IN "PARK". AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL FREE IF THE DRIVER DOES NOT SET THE PARKING BRAKE WHEN PARKING OR LEAVING VEHICLE UNATTENDED.
The fix
DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARKING PAWL WITH ONE THAT HAS BEEN HEAT-TREATED.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT TRUCKS.SYSTEM: POWER TRAIN; TRANSMISSION, AUTOMATIC.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: THIS CONDITION COULD RESULT IN VEHICLE DAMAGE, PROPERTYDAMAGE, AND PERSONAL INJURY.NOTE: OWNER IS ADVISED TO ENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE WHEN LEAVING THE VEHICLEPARKED OR UNATTENDED.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from November 1, 1978 to November 1, 1978. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.