Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Auto trans driveability

[tractorface]

Is there a way to keep the converter from locking up but still let the truck shift into fourth gear. Seems like I am always in a situation where I'm behind someone doing 55 to 60 (2250 rpm) and would like to be in fourth (1800 rpm) but the thing always goes into lockup mode and the rpm's drop to 1500 or so. It is a constant battle and even more of a problem when I tow. Is my only solution to go to an aftermarket trans, ( I will eventually but would like to get what I can out of the stocker, it still works great) or can I safely keep it from locking up electronically.

Thanks



Oh yeah,Have stock automatic and 3. 54 rears.



I usually try to run either 50mph or 70mph, not much in between.



I can hear all the 6 speed guys now

 

[Hohn]

"When you surrender control, do so wisely. You may not like the decisions made"



:-laf:



I think that an Emjay controller or the ATS commander will allow you to control certain trans functions.



But what do I know, I am just a 6-speed guy that you can hear now... .



"Can you hear me now? GOOD!"





HOHN

 

[tractorface]

I am pretty sure I can use a switch to stop it from locking (kind of an opposite mystery switch). My question really is will it damage anything. My guess is no.



If I take the foil of my head I stop hearing the guys rowing the CTD's everywhere.

 

[rblomquist]

What's really happening when you think it's shifting into 4th is the TC is going into lockup; it does feel like another gear though. Probably feels like you're going into warp speed mode after lockup. Also, don't forget about recalibrating your APPS, my pedal was WAY off when I bought the truck a year ago.



MY truck with it's stock auto is the most horrendous and frustrating thing I've even driven (before lockup). After the TC locks up it's among the most fun to drive vehicles I've ever driven. Man, can't wait till I get enough pennies saved up for an aftermarket transmission.



You can look at the Emjay controller but I'm curious myself about what they do to the durability or lack therof when used with the stock transmission. I know you can't have the TC locked up in 2nd unless you have a modified trans though.