2004 Dodge Diesel auto transmission
Hi All: This truck has about 110k. I have done alot of work on the engine and no major work on the auto. transmission. I would like to keep using it as our tow vehicle. I have changed the transmissio...
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With those fluid changes, the bands should be getting adjusted as well. One is accessible externally, the other requires removal of the transmission pan (while the transmission filter is being replaced). When the front band runs out of threads during adjustment, it is worn out and needs to be replaced soon.
A common problem is a shuttle shift between 1-2 during light throttle applications. The fix is to replace the pressure transducer, and while at it go ahead and replace the 'whateveritscalled' solenoid. There is an upgrade by using using the GM solenoid in place of the factory spec unit.
A shift kit (TransGo or other manufacturer) will help with longevity of the transmission. They require valve body removal for installation. Quicker TC lockups, increased line pressure for better clutch application, without break-neck shifts. I have the TransGo kit in mine (without drilling the faster TC lockup holes) to help me with a 2-3 shuttle I had, which it resolved.
Torque Converter failure with the sprag when it tries to 'drive through' the brakes while stopping and high idle while in gear. The TC clutch doesn't fully release, kind of like pushing the clutch pedal about half way in, the engine is loaded so the computer increases fuel to maintain a set idle speed, so the truck 'power-brakes' when you aren't touching the throttle.
Consistent excessive heat could be a plugged/stuck thermostat in the transmission cooler. Pull and clean, and many people in warmer climates flip the thermostat around and install so that the fluid is always flowing through the fins instead of bypassing.
The ball check valve for the fluid cooler can become plugged and cause high temperatures as well. Or it can get stuck open and allow drain-back to the transmission and will cause a truck that wont move for a few seconds until it refills the cooling system and builds pressure.
Other 'signs' of failing don't normally exist. Not shifting into 4th, no TC lockup, getting stuck in 2nd, not upshifting, will usually suddenly happen without notice.
Remember that fluid is not circulated in Park. If you are nursing a hot transmission, idle the truck in Neutral so that fluid is circulated through the cooling system. Idling it Park for extended periods will generate heat in the trans.
A common problem is a shuttle shift between 1-2 during light throttle applications. The fix is to replace the pressure transducer, and while at it go ahead and replace the 'whateveritscalled' solenoid. There is an upgrade by using using the GM solenoid in place of the factory spec unit.
A shift kit (TransGo or other manufacturer) will help with longevity of the transmission. They require valve body removal for installation. Quicker TC lockups, increased line pressure for better clutch application, without break-neck shifts. I have the TransGo kit in mine (without drilling the faster TC lockup holes) to help me with a 2-3 shuttle I had, which it resolved.
Torque Converter failure with the sprag when it tries to 'drive through' the brakes while stopping and high idle while in gear. The TC clutch doesn't fully release, kind of like pushing the clutch pedal about half way in, the engine is loaded so the computer increases fuel to maintain a set idle speed, so the truck 'power-brakes' when you aren't touching the throttle.
Consistent excessive heat could be a plugged/stuck thermostat in the transmission cooler. Pull and clean, and many people in warmer climates flip the thermostat around and install so that the fluid is always flowing through the fins instead of bypassing.
The ball check valve for the fluid cooler can become plugged and cause high temperatures as well. Or it can get stuck open and allow drain-back to the transmission and will cause a truck that wont move for a few seconds until it refills the cooling system and builds pressure.
Other 'signs' of failing don't normally exist. Not shifting into 4th, no TC lockup, getting stuck in 2nd, not upshifting, will usually suddenly happen without notice.
Remember that fluid is not circulated in Park. If you are nursing a hot transmission, idle the truck in Neutral so that fluid is circulated through the cooling system. Idling it Park for extended periods will generate heat in the trans.
