That was the non-public Technical Service Bulletin. As I recall, Ford concluded it was cheaper to repair the blown engines than recall them all for prophylaxis. It might have been cheaper in the short run--maybe. But the cost-accountants left the loss of squandered goodwill out of that calculus.
Oh, and the AXOD transaxle was not designed for the power put out by the 3.8l engine. It could barely handle the power of the 3.0l engine. The AXOD was eventually AXED, but not before hundreds of thousands were made.
They should have known better than to make the clutch packs out of Havarti. At least use a drier cheese like Provolone.
AXOD - barely enough friction material for the imaginary torque of an asthmatic Escort...
Did they ever! And that can be the biggest cost of all. Ask me about my Toyota Camry which runs like a watch -- and my Daughter's new Honda. Compete or perish.