First transmission oil change question: adjust or not adjust?

[simurdak]

It's time for the first transmission oil change. Is it necessary to adjust the bands if everything seems fine? I called the local dealer and they said they do not. What do you think? Thanks

 

[Coop]

According to the service manual from Chrysler, adjust the bands at each fluid change interval, whether its 15k or 30k. The dealer did adjust mine the first time, and I'll do it the next time.

 

[Bob Wagner]

Yes

adjust the bands its simple to do.

 

[LandShark]

simurdak: It takes all of 5 minutes to adjust both bands. Why would the dealer not adjust the bands when doing a fluid change? This is a simple but critical adjustment. Even more important because it's the first time! Find yourself another dealer!!

 

[Fireman Dave]

When I did mine, I didn't touch the bands. The way it was explained to me is that the band adjustment is an outdated habit. The bands today are much thinner and seldom need adjustment. They shouldn't need to be adjusted unless the transmission isn't performing correctly. So why is it in the manual, you ask? Maybe it's a nice little piece of income for the dealer when people bring it in. This was all explained to me by a transmission shop owner who I found to be very knowledgable. He said that if you adjust them, it's likely they will end up being at the same adjustment after you do it that they were before you did it.

 

[Dieselnerd]

Fireman Dave, Dave Goerend told me just about exactly the same thing. He also said if the bands get too loose and it slips a little between shifts it will not hurt anything but if they are adjusted too tight you will cause excessive wear and not notice any drivability problems while the wear is happening. If you elect to adjust, make sure you get it right and remember too loose is better than too tight.

 

[Fireman Dave]

Yup

Dieselnerd:



Yup, same source for my info. I guess I was a little hesitant to name him so as not to start another trans. guru controversy. That last one just got ugly.

 

[tlippy]

My Dealer and a local transmission shop also told me that band adjustment is unnecessary. Old school just like guys who tell you not to ratate radial tires. 56 Chevvy memtality!

 

[Coop]

Wow, I'm glad this thread has come up. I would have adjusted the bands unnecessarily, probable messing something up with my luck. The truck shifts well enough for me (for an auto). My next truck will definately be the 6-speed.