New Member and Auto Trans. Questions

[DMiracle]

Let me just say this is a wonderful forum and resource. I have been lurking for about a year waiting to buy a new Ram or F*rd. Decided to buy a used truck (see sig) and wait two years to let the new models/engines get any bugs worked out (2004 Ram or F*ord)



My problems:



1. After I had the truck for a day I noticed a very slight "shudder" in the transmission at medium throttle (say 1600 rpm) and between 50-60 MPH. Full or light throttle no problem. Dealer flushed and filled ATF with Mopar fluid (dealer said it had other brand in it and was not good i. e. can cause shudder) and the old fulid was very dirty. After 350 miles I still have a small shudder but it does seem to be a little less noticable. Dealer said give a few more miles and it should get better. Any ideas on the cause? transmission shifts fine and strong otherwise.



2. Just tonight I started the Cummins up and heard a very distinct fluid "gushing" sound coming from under the 4x4 engagement on the floor. The engine was still warm from coming up a steep grade towing 2500 lbs. at WOT for about 20 seconds. It had been sitting with the ignition off for about 1. 5 hrs. while I mowed some grass. I've driven the truck for 1300 miles already and have not heard this noise before. I will say that I don't have guages yet and that the trans temp light did not come on.



3. Thinking about buying a CARS extended warranty with a four year term and unlimited mileage for $795. It has a $100 deductible and covers pretty much everything (not just powertrain). Does anyone know anything about CARS brand warranties and what do you think?



Thanks for the info and I look forward to giving back to the board and to the 2004 Dodge/Cummins model year.



Donnie

 

[Joe G.]

Donnie,



It sounds like you need to get the line pressure checked. The clutches may be worn out and you need an overhaul. If you are getting dark fluid and it shudders then something is probably slipping.

 

[Cooker]

Welcome to the TDR.



All may not be lost with your transmission. You can up the line pressure of the stock transmission to help it out a bit. This may or may not eliminate your problem, but I think it will help. The Cummins is putting out a lot of torque at 1600, and the shudder could be from lack of transmission pressure at low RPM's.



If you don't plan on spending big money on the transmission, or don't want to at this point, I would recommend you consider installing a shift kit or complete valve body. This will help your pressure problems.



Just for my curiosity, I am intesrested to learn more about the warranty you describe. They are willing to warranty a 100,000 mile, 6yr old vehicle for four years for $800.



-Ryan