Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Help, my wallet is going dry!

[SandAddict]

I have a 2001 3500 4x4 that I bought new. It was an automatic truck which was a gutless wonder. I took it to Diesel Dynamics and got their injectors, a comp box, 4" exhaust, an Hx-40, DTT valvebody, converter, and other trans gismos. The truck was great for about 10,000 miles until the trans started acting really stupid. I did a five-speed swap with the five-speed computers and everything. Now the truck has terrible turbo lag. All I do is tow trailers. The truck is great on the freeway, but getting to freeway speed takes a long time (compared to my automatic). Does anyone have any suggestions. My five-speed came out of an 01 that had 2,500 miles on it. I used a South Bend clutch and after about 4,000 miles the trans won't come out of reverse if I come to a stop before shifting out of reverse. I have had the clutch out to inspect the pilot bearing and do a visual inspection. I found that the disk was too big for the flywheel and pressure plate. I machined down the outside surface to keep it from dragging. However, the same problem still occurs. All I want is to have a good usable truck again. What should I do??

 

[Partyat33]

Well, not to sound too obvious, but I would call Diesel Dynamics. There are a lot of smart people over there and generally pretty helpful. From your description I cannot tell what is going on.



Dennis

 

[SandAddict]

I called them a few months ago when the problems started, but Keith didn't sound very interested in trying to help me. I was looking for a second opinion because they are the only ones who I've gotten advice from.

 

[SMorneau]

My five speed always slipped right into and out of gear. It still sounds like you have a transmission problem. Does the transmission shift out of reverse with the engine shut down? Maybe your clutch is still dragging? Slave cylinder?

 

[SandAddict]

The trans seems to shift fine when you are rolling slowly, or with the engine off. How can you check the slave cyl. The piston travel cannot be seen because it is inside the bellhousing. The pedal travel seems to be like any other dodge I have driven. I guess I figure that after I spend $800 for a clutch I shouldn't have trouble!

 

[the whale dog]

look up quad4x4.com and look at their transmission problem list they have a thrust washer that got chewed when the 5th gear nut backed off a little and allowed play in the shaft causing reverse problems they seem very knowledgable and Dan would most likely be glad to help you out if he can