Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) hard to shift while stopped NV 4500

[gary johnson]

well... (deep subject for this shallow mind)... 98 12 valve NV4500 transmission and 5th gear went south after 131K so I replaced it with a good reman one, along with a Phoenix 13" clutch kit good for 1000lb/torq and medium towing. The reman transmission is Very hard to shift while stopped, especially trying to get into reverse. Prancing thru the gears during acceleration is not too bad... . even smooth sometimes. Got Mopar synthetic for standard trannys in it... . anybody using anything else?

 

[hsmith]

That indicates the clutch is not releasing completely. Does it release close to the top, or is it just off the floor?

 

[HBarlow]

Yep, you probably have a clutch problem but it could also be a pilot bushing/bearing or throwout bearing problem.

In any case, prepare to R&R the transmission again.

 

[BigPapa]

Or Hydraulics. Try pumping the pedal a few times and see if it gets better.



Scott

 

[ata]

BigPapa, Has it. The new clutch you put in probably has a heavier plate load then the stock one you took out. The hydraulics can't take the load and are not disaengaging the clutch. You are probably going to have to up grade the hydraulics. Easy job just spendy

 

[HBarlow]

Or Hydraulics. Try pumping the pedal a few times and see if it gets better.

Scott

Yeah, you're right. And that could be the best news because replacing the clutch master and slave cylinder would not require him to R&R the transmission.

 

[gary johnson]

not quite off the floor, hsmith... . but not at the top either. The clutch kit came with everything..... pilot and throwout bearing and I checked everything 3 times before the bell housing went on. Thanks everyone! I will look into the hydraulics... . makes sense!

Also noticed it shifts nicely in the cold mornings..... getting frost now.