Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Stutter when backing with a load- Normal?

[Schlickenmeyer]

I have a problem backing with a load on, she kinda stutters, quiet really, no funny noises, otherwise seems fine. Is this normal?



Thanks!

 

[bmoeller]

I'm guessing the clutch is slipping. Go to low range on the t-case, and try it again, to see if it still does it.

 

[Schlickenmeyer]

Ok, thanks. I will try that next time I hook her up. checked all my u-joints, etc, all is good. 1st gear no problem, either. A friend thought it was normal, says his 03 does it too. . I just wanted to make sure before towing season.

 

[Cummins724]

I get that too... . I'd say its normal, by what you are explaining.

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

Normal, especially with 3. 54's. Mine has been doing it for the 270,000 miles I have driven it out of 510,000 miles total. Very pronounced with a load hitched on.


Godspeed,
Trent

 

[Ramtough]

I had the same problem with mine. After talking to a number of people, I decided that I had a bad pressure plate or a failed transmission input bearing. Dan Guarino at Quad 4X4 is one of the most knowledgable people in the industry. I ended up buying a Southbend ConFE clutch kit and one of Dan's upgraded bearings.



What really had me upset was that I had 12,700 miles on a replacement no-name clutch that had a 12K warranty and the shop that installed it would not do anything to help me.



When the clutch came out, there were hot spots on the flywheel where it had not been properly refinished the last time.



To me, the risk of letting the chattering and shuddering go was too great since it can be caused by the input bearing. According to Dan, that bearing is underengineered and he sees a lot of failures. If this bearing fails, it will destroy the input shaft and you will be looking at a transmission overhaul.



The diesel mechanic who did my clutch job was very impressed by Dan's bearing. He said they usually don't see ball bearings on input shafts on trucks until they are in the class VIII range.



My 'new' clutch was hardly worn but since I had the transmission out, I decided to go ahead an replace it with something that was rated higher than stock and from a highly reputable known source.



I also use a 4 low kit. It is worth its weight in gold when it comes to maneuvering a heavy trailer in tight places or backing up inclines. It also takes a huge load off the clutch. The main reason I have not upgraded my truck is that I have not seen an aftermarket 4 Low cabability for these newer electroncially shifted front axles.

 

[Schlickenmeyer]

Thanks all, I used 4 lo for the first time today, backing into the driveway through the plow snow pack. left knee high heavy snow, too lazy to shovel. drove out i first ok, but when I got home, I got some stutter in reverse, tried 4LO and wow.

that is cool. like butter. I will just get the truck and trailer straight, and use 4 lo.



Glad it's not repairs.

 

[Cummins724]

You can by a differential switch which lets you put the transfer case in 4LO, but doesn't engage the front axle... . it is called a 4LO diff. switch.

 

[Ramtough]

I was going to make that point last night and post a link to a source. I got my 4 low switch from BD Diesel but I don't see it listed on their web site. I also could not find anything doing a Google search. I would not sell mine for $500.

 

[David_VT]

When I had my ladder bars installed I noticed a large improvement in the 'backing shudder'. I always assumed it was related to those large lift blocks over the axle. I have an aftermarket clutch with just about zero slip which makes backing a load a challenge... .