Shifter wouldn't move due to ice. Solutions?

[Bikersmurf]

After about 100 miles on the highway in crappy snowy weather, I pulled off the road. When I went to put the E350 in Reverse it wouldn't shift. After working it back an forth I managed to get it into reverse but not park.

Long story short, the lever at the side of the transmission was encased in about 8" of snow. I used the windshield scraper to knock the snow and ice away. Problem with shifting solved.

Now my question is what can be done to avoid this? Should there be a guard over the lever & cable? Has anyone ever made one?

It's a 1997 with an E4OD (from what I understand).

 

[brianjwilson]

I don't have a solution but I've even had electric shift transfer cases refuse to work with ice and snow packed around them. NO external linkages but I still would have to get out and clear it with a stick.

I would be cautious putting much over the linkage as it might actually trap and accumulate more snow/ice. If anything, maybe a well placed splash shield?

 

[Bikersmurf]

I'm thinking of a splash shield to block the snow from getting there. Also combined with a mount for the coolant filter so that it also is somewhat heated. My concern, however, is making the problem worse. Or harder to resolve.

I'm somewhat surprised to find this problem on an Ambulance... if lives were depending on it I'd fix the whole fleet so it couldn't happen.

 

[tonga]

I've had my e350 for 4 years now. No issues for me here in Calgary.

 

[Crank]

If you are splashing that much back on your transmission or it's somehow blowing in there you need some sort of guard. Maybe just something to protect it from the side but not the front or rear, that way you don't inhibit movement of your linkage. Is it a cable linkage? Something you could try to find some sort of accordion type boot on, and a shield for the shift arm? Could possibly make it mount off of the pan, but you may have to clearance the lip if it has one.

 

[goodtimes]

Now my question is what can be done to avoid this?

Move somewhere warmer.





(sorry).

 

[luthj]

There are anti ice coatings available. They would likely reduce ice build up, and/or encourage it to shed readily.

 

[Bikersmurf]

This has been the first snow in three years... so warmer isn't really an option in this Country.

It'll likely never happen again. However, it could be bad to not have reverse when it's needed.