1997 Ford Aerostar Owner's Manual - Page 175

When to use 2 (Second) Use 2 (Second) to start-up on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades. This position provides 2 (Second) gear operation only. When to use 1 (Low) Use 1 (Low) to provide maximum engine braking on steep downgrades. Upshifts from 1 (Low) can be made by manually shifting to 2 (Second) or j (Overdrive). Selection of 1 (Low) gear provides only low gear operation from start-up. Selection of 1 (Low) while at higher speeds provides a shift to second gear, and a shift to first gear will occur after the vehicle decelerates to the proper speed. Forced Downshifts To gain acceleration in j (Overdrive) or Drive (j position with Overdrive cancelled) when passing another vehicle, push the accelerator to the floor. The transmission will downshift to the appropriate gear: third, second or first. Driving (5R55E Transmission) When to use j (Overdrive) This is the normal driving position. As the vehicle picks up speed, automatic upshifts to second, third, fourth and fifth gears will occur when j (Overdrive) is chosen on the selector and the transmission control switch has not been pressed. The transmission will shift into the correct gear when the right speed is achieved, for the accelerator pedal position you have chosen. 175