Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) lost 2nd gear

[JHSchultz]

Transmission started acting up yesterday... . won't shift out of 1st unless I ease off throttle and I beleive its shifting directly to 3rd. When I put the selector in 2nd manually the transmission just free wheels.

After much searching and researching I'm of the opinion my 2nd gear band strut broke. I have an appointment with a shop this morning... my question is this : If they pull the pan , is this band strut damage obvious ? Can I see broken or dislodged parts ?

 

[OPoole]

Check the adj 1st i have seen them out and stip 2nd. Yes once the pans off you will see. . The band anchor will break 1st the cast piece.

 

[JHSchultz]

Thanks for the quick reply... . another question... If it is broken does this mean a complete teardown is in order to fix ?

 

[JHSchultz]

Fixed

I found a shop owner who wasn't even open for business on a Saturday that wasn't afraid to help a guy out... he dropped the pan and valve body and found that the 2nd gear band strut anchor had broken and that let the band relax... so no 2nd gear.

He replaced the little wedge , adjusted the bands and installed a fresh filter and oil and it shifts like new.

Most shops would have tried to sell me a rebuild... I walked away for $200. 00 plus $100. 00 tip for his honesty and integrity.