Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 2002 trans going south?

[jesnic]

I am a new member here. I have been reading posts for a while and decided to join and be a part of an awesome site. I have a 2002 auto, 4x4 with approx. 180,000 miles on a stock trans. The torque converter is going out, I believe. The truck has been shuttering when I push it hard. Now it is shuttering even if I am just pushing the loud pedal to pass. My question is, do I need a full rebuild? I have an edge comp box (usually run on 3x50, 4" exhaust, workhorse intake, quadzilla guages. The trans guy says he can install the 2003 (48RE) parts in my trans and make it stronger?

 

[Fishin Guide]

First off, welcome!

I too have an '02, but lost my trans at a much lower mileage. With a transmission with that many miles, I would recommend a full rebuild that meets your needs.

Whether you want to add power, tow big trailers with an exhaust brake, drag race or whatever, it all needs to be taken into consideration.

Your 47RE can be built to handle as much power as you can make. And some 48RE parts are used by some builders in upgraded transmissions. Some will result in more parasitic drag, so you just need to know what you are buying and why.

Now, are you sure it's the trans? These VP44 powered rigs have a long history of failing lift pumps, injection pumps and other components that may cause similar bucking or shuttering. You may just have a rapid locking and unlocking or a bad but fixable component in the trans. I would just be sure what is failing before throwing money at it. It can get spendy.

Dave