What P1744 Error Code Means & How To Solve It?

Every Ford Powerstroke’s PCM generates certain codes or diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) to notify its inner difficulties. The P1744 is one of these DTCs. 

If you’re getting the error code P1744 & don’t know what to do about it, this article is for you. In this article, I’ve explained everything (from symptom to solution) related to this code for you to take action accordingly. 

What Does P1744 Code Mean On Ford Powerstroke? 

P1744 is one of the trouble codes of Ford Powerstroke. From 6.0L engine to 7.3L, every Ford vehicle can have this code. By definition, the P1744 code means Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) System Stuck in Off Position. 

The torque converter is one of the wonders of the automatic transmission car. It helps with increasing the vehicle’s speed & stopping the vehicle instantly (almost) without shutting the engine completely.

This torque converter (TC) is operated via transmission fluid. The fluid creates pressure & hence helps TC to transfer engine torque to the transmission. Here, the TCC (Torque Converter Clutch) comes into play controlling the TC to operate fluently. 

Sometimes the torque converter clutch can malfunction due to falling in off position for various reasons. When the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) cannot command the torque converter to lock via the TCC, it generates the error code P1744. 

Symptoms Of Getting The P1744 Code On A Ford

Like other DTCs of Ford Powerstroke, this code also comes with some symptoms. Expect to have the trouble code P1744 if you’re noticing the symptoms mentioned below: 

  1. Engine Light is Activated 
  2. Inconsistent Fuel Economy & MPG
  3. Sluggish Driving Experience
  4. Weird Noises From the Torque Converter 
  5. Other TCC Related Codes

Apart from these four symptoms, you may face other engine difficulties due to this error code. 

The Causing Factors Of The Error Code P1744

You may get the code for multiple reasons. Here are some of the most common causing factors for getting the error code P1744:

  1. Transmission Fluid Level is Low
  2. Dirty Transmission Fluid
  3. Damaged TCC Solenoid Valve
  4. Damaged TCC Solenoid Valve Wirings, Harness & Connectors 
  5. Open or Shorted Circuit of The TCC Solenoid valve

You can probably guess, all of the problems are related to the torque converter clutch. However, you might need to look at the converter as well in certain conditions.

How Serious Is Code P1744 On Ford Powerstroke?

This code can cause unpredictable RPMs no matter where you drive. For example, you might be getting highway speed (2600 RPM @70MPH) instead of normal speed (2000 RPM @70MPH). 

The RPM vs. MPH graph states irregular RPM, which isn’t a good sign for your engine as it drains fuel. That being said, it’s an ideal decision to solve the code as soon as possible. 

How to Solve P1744 Error Code On Ford Powerstroke?

You can solve this code on your own with your existing home equipment. Follow along with me to get rid of the P1744 code with ease.

Check Wirings & Connectors 

The torque converter clutch is located in the middle of the torque converter. You’ll find the torque converter behind the air filter. Gently pull the air filter out & inspect the torque filter clutch thoroughly. 

Check for damaged & burnt wires/connectors. If you find anything suspicious or unusual, consider replacing them & reset your code with an OBD-II scanner. If the code returns, proceed to the next method. 

Change Transmission Fluid & Filter

As dirty transmission fluid is one of the major reasons for getting the code P1744, replacing it should do the job. Here are the things you’ll need for the operation: 

  1. Transmission Filter
  2. Gasket
  3. Transmission Fluid (MERCON®V)
  4. Silicon Paste
  5. 1/4-inch Low-torque Torque wrench
  6. Ratchet & Extension
  7. Ramps

Considering you’re ready with the equipment, let’s get started with the step by step guide:

Step 1: Drain Transmission Fluid 

Use something (jack or ramps) to lift your truck. Later on, remove the 18 bolts of the transmission pan with a ratchet. I recommend starting from the rear bolts.

You’ll notice fluid is leaking just after removing 2 to 3 bolts. Use any bowl-shaped thing to collect the fluid & prevent them from messing the whole surface. 

Note: Use a universal joint extension for the tricky bolt hidden behind the catalytic converter. 

Step 2: Replace The Filter

You’ll find the filter just behind the transmission pan. Only a 10mm bolt supports this filter. Gently remove the bolt & pull the filter out. 

Take your new filter & install the O-rings (from your previous filter). Finally, replace the filter just following the reverse removing process. 

Step 3: Replace The Gasket 

The gasket helps with making the transmission pan leak-proof. They’re mostly made of rubber & you can easily remove them. 

After removing the gasket from your transmission pan, clean your pan thoroughly. Finally, apply a small amount of silicone paste & install the new gasket. 

Step 4: Re-Install The Transmission Pan

After preparing your transmission pan, re-install it following the reverse process of removing it mentioned in Step 1. Make sure to clean the surface area (around the filter) before installing it. 

Caution: You’ll have to compress the transmission pan by tightening them. To compress it, use this sequence of tightening the bolts. 

Pic Credit: Autozone

Step 5: Fill The Transmission With Fluid 

Try not to overfill the transmission with fluid. Remember the bowl you used for storing the fluid? Pour them into a bottle with a scale. 

After getting the accurate measurement (it should be 3 & a ½ quarters), fill the transmission with the proper amount of fluid. 

After removing the filter & transmission fluid, erase the code with a scanner. The error code should not return this time. If it does, follow the next & final method. 

Change Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid 

Get yourself a new torque converter clutch solenoid & follow the steps mentioned below: 

  • Step 1: Remove the transmission pan
  • Step 2: Remove the filter 
  • Step 3: Remove the torque converter clutch solenoid 
  • Step 4: Install the new transmission converter clutch solenoid
  • Step 5: Gently re-install the filter & transmission fluid (check the upper segment for detailed tutorial)

This TCC replacement should fix the code completely. Remove the code with a scanner & your truck is good to go. 

How Much Does It Cost To Solve The Error Code P1744?

Depending on your replacement parts, the cost of solving the error code P1744 can vary. I’ve listed the replacement parts price below for your clearer understanding:

  • TCC Solenoid Costs $150 to $200
  • MERCON®V Case Of 12 Quartz Costs $95
  • Gasket Costs $15 to $20
  • Filter Costs $20 to $30

Don’t forget to add an extra $75 to $150 per hour labor cost if you’re getting help from a professional technician. 

Common Mistakes While Solving The P1744 Code

It’s easy to make mistakes when you’re doing the job for the first time. Still, consider avoiding these mistakes mentioned below:

  • Don’t remove the transmission pan in a hurry, as you might mess the ground with fluid. 
  • Don’t tighten the transmission pan without following the sequence mentioned above. 

Additional Comments To Consider Regarding The P1744 Code 

Replacing the TCC will completely fix the error code P1744 most of the time. You might still get the code & it’s very rare.

Consider getting expert help & follow along with his advice/instruction.

Conclusion 

I hope this article was helpful enough to know the error code properly. Now you know what the P1744 code means & how to fix it. 

You can easily fix the code if you’ve proper equipment available at home. If you don’t, consider borrowing them from an auto shop or let them do the work.

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