Hamilton Journal-News

Q I have a 2001 Ford F-150 4X4 pickup with 107,000 miles and a V-8 engine. Lately the automatic transmission doesn't work in "drive." It disengages when I accelerate past 35 mph. When I press on the accelerator, the truck slows down. If I shift from "drive" to D2, the transmission remains engaged. Does the transmission need replacement? L.H., e-mail

A It is possible. However, it's possible there is an electrical problem that impairs the transmission. A computer controls the transmission. There might be a fault in the computer, or the wiring might have a fault. Before a technician recommends an overhaul, he or she should check the electronic portion of the transmission and the shift linkage. If all of this is working as designed, it's likely the transmission has an internal fault that only an overhaul or installation of a remanufactured transmission will cure.

Fuming over fuel recommendation

Q Recently I was at an auto supply store when one of the employees behind the counter stated that purchasing gasoline from a grocery store is not good for my car. Can you comment? B.P., e-mail

A My personal preference is to purchase gasoline from gas stations that are very busy. Also, I never fill up when the tanker truck is filling the underground storage tanks. I always purchase fuel from name-brand stations and those that have filters on the dispenser hose. I do this to help prevent contamination of the fuel system in all of my vehicles.

In this country, you have so many choices. Use whatever fuel you desire as long as it meets or exceeds auto manufacturer recommendations and as long as it performs well in your vehicle. To save a few bucks, if the fuel requirement for your car is 87-octane gas, don't purchase midgrade or premium gas. If your vehicle doesn't perform well on a particular brand of 87-octane gas, purchase another brand of 87-octane gasoline.

If you aren't sure about the fuel requirements, check your owner's guide. It has all the information you need to purchase the proper octane fuel for your car.

What differentiates gasoline brands is in the additives mixed into the fuel. Obviously, grocery chains are not in the business of producing gasoline. They purchase their fuel from a gasoline supplier. If you would like to know which brand of gasoline a grocery chain sells at their dispensers, ask management personnel at the grocery store where you purchase fuel.

Charging system problem

Q The battery indicator light is on in my 1998 Ford Crown Victoria. I replaced the battery, but the light continues to shine. I had the alternator tested, but it is charging fine. What's the problem? L.L., e-mail

A The battery indicator light actually alerts you to the state of the alternator. It doesn't alert you to a problem in the battery, although the battery can have a fault.

Check the drive belt for proper tension. Perhaps it needs replacement or the tensioning system has a fault. Replace the belt and tensioner if necessary.

If the drive belt and tensioner are fine, make sure all the connections in the alternator circuit are secure and free of corrosion. Correct problems if needed.

If no problems are found it's likely there is a fault within the alternator. Replacement could be the cure.

Thanks for all of your great questions. Dr. Gizmo looks forward to answering more.