I bought a 96 f150 5.0 last week and the trans is bad no forward gears at all. found out the throttle position sensor wires was cut and no plug to be found to hook a new one up.is there any reason why someone would cut it off? i found the three wires by the intake,went to junk yard and got the plug.before i wire it i was just wondering if it will mess anything up when i wire it and put on a new tps

SOURCE: 2001 Ford Explorer Sport Throttle Position Sensor

Hi, Take a little time to check all earth mounts,There are some fine earthwires under the looms running from air intake if one of these is broken or dirty it can cause all the symptoms you describe. All the best. Phil

SOURCE: trans wont shift out of low 96 cavalier 2.4

Does the speedometer work?

SOURCE: Replacing the throttle position sensor on my 93 Ford F150

try autozone.com to see if they have your car listed for diagrams pictures and step by step instructions if your car is not listed then try your local library they have all the car manuals and even copy them for you

SOURCE: 1988 ford f150 running rough

Might want to change o2 sensor's, If they are not sending the right single its tell the computer to dump fuel. 1988 was using a fuel density system.
(1989 came out with Mass air flow system)
Check this
I think it might have a TFI module that's not working right. Located under distributor. Its gray and about 4" long and if equip, you need a 4 or 5.5 mm tool to unbolt it. This was a common thing back in the 80's. Its been so long I can't remember if the 4.9 straight 6 had it or not.
T- Thick
F- Film
I- Ignition module

SOURCE: 96 Ford Explorer is studdering (misfiring) when going up hills

I have the same exact problem that just started immediately AFTER I got a tranny service where they changed the Trans Fluid, Trans Filter, Fuel Filter. Took it back and they say nothing is wrong with it. Took it to the dealer thinking I could get some REAL answers... they just told me to replace spark plugs, wiring & coil, for $900. Only studders when quickly accelerating above 40mph. I've check other forums, they say to clean the Mass Air Flow sensor. Haven't tried it yet. This seems the easiest before replacing spark plugs. Any other suggestions anyone?? Please.....