Transmission problem 97

Hi to all,since it is my first post here. :) First thing first - what sa great website,i never even thought it does exist such a thing.WoW!

I have Windstar 97 and when i am about to pull to full stop,the trans is not shifting down correctly,it actually goes to "neutral" and then eventually kicks back in but not always,so in order to move, i must shift manually to a second gear.Is that a sensor problem or rather my transmission is going off ?

I also have noise coming out during the right turn.
Any help would be greatly appreciated,before i will go to mechanic.
Thanks.

First thing is check the fluid level.

Obvious perhaps but worth checking

I did that as i got a car( a month ago) but i will do that again.
Haven't found any leaks on my driveway at all.
I am afraid to go to the shop and learn bad news regarding my transmission.
The noise i have ,is probably from the tie rod and it is actually on both ends.I don't think it has to do anything with power steering,since it steers rather easly


Thanks anyway DRW1000.

With regards to the transmission...The valvebody probably has a worn boost valve and/or 1-2 capacity valve problem and the oil pump shaft might be cutting into the sleeve within the channel plate. This lets fluid leak internally and creates instable pressures and "acts" as you describe. It should be thoughly diagnosed before condemning the transmission, as sometimes, electronics can do weird things also...