Lazy automatic transmission

[JET]

I have a 2003 2500 Cummins with a stock automatic transmission and 130,000 miles. I travel a lot, so it sits at DFW Airport, sometimes for weeks on end... My problem is that when I return after 5 days or more, crank up the engine, put it in reverse, and nothing happens. I have let it idle for as much as five minutes, put it in reverse, and still nothing happens. If I put it in drive, it picks up almost instantly, then put it in reverse, and it will creep away, and after a few feet, it is okay. It is like the transmission pump looses its prime. It has done this since new. I have changed the oil out and put in Amsoil, still no change. Has anyone else had this happen, and if so, is there a fix for it?

Thanks
John Todd

 

[JEstes]

That sounds like it could be torque converter drainback. Next time, try putting it in neutral and letting it idle. Unless your valve body is modified, there is no fluid flow in park.

 

[JET]

Thanks, I will try that on my next trip. I had forgotten that fluid didn't flow in park.

John Todd

 

[JimB1]

Also, at initial startup and in neutral after long sit, hold idle up to 1100-1200 rpm for 2-3 minutes.



Transmission oil pump output much higher as compared to about 750 rpm.



In addition to TC not full, it's possible some clutch paks slipping until all oil circuits fully charged.



Also, how long since last transmission full service? Maybe oil filter, band adjust, oil change.

 

[JET]

It was serviced about 6 months ago. It has done this ever since new, and the dealer had no explanation.

 

[raychem]

It boils down to converter drain back. The best thing is to put your transmission in neutral and let it idle for a minute or so then engage the gear. I will happen with any trans, stock or modified after siting for so long and especially with the milage you have. Nothing wrong with your transmission at all.



Richard

 

[drag racer]

It was serviced about 6 months ago. It has done this ever since new, and the dealer had no explanation.

I would run away fast from this dealer if they are that clueless for something so common and well understood with the Rams auto trans.

 

[RHestand]

JET, In thinking about this, I would think (after truck had been sitting a few days) if you checked tour ATF before starting, the fluid level would show much higher on the dip-stick (with TC bleed back) than it would, in doing the same procedure, after sitting just a few hours.

W/O starting eng. it will show over full, but after long periods of sitting, it should show even higher, with TC drain back. IMO

Ray