Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) breaking of kick down lever in transmission

[wb6tkr]

Would like to know if anyone else has had a problem with the (as the dealer calls it) the kick down lever, breaking, in a 1999 Dodge automatic transmission? Tanny wont leave first gear unless you let up on accelerator pedal. Transmission has a H. D. torque convertor and valve body installed. This is second time this part has failed in the last three years and the transmission must be removed to install a new one. The dealer says these never break and cannot figure out what is causing them to break. Anyone had the same problem? transmission works great otherwise.

 

[parcher]

I broke one once. I've broken the strut (flat metal bar that connects lever to band) twice. In my case I had a 450hp gas motor in a 5,400lb truck with a shift kit. If the band is loose the front servo will have more leverage over the band,lever,and strut. Keep the band well adjusted and make sure your line pressure is not too high.

 

[Ray Torresdal]

not uncommon

This is not uncommon, if it is the part I'm thinking of. They come in various configurations (2. 9, 3. 8, maybe others), the number corresponds approximately to the leverage. Check with Goerand Transmission (563)778-2719, or Haisley (765)948-3164 for heat treated replacements.



Ray