Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Transmission Question

[NWiegand]

Hey guys,



I am the new proud owner of a 2000 Quad Cab 4x4. My transmission shifting seems to be delayed somewhat -- from 3rd to 4th and 4th to 5th it seems like the transmission should shift but it will wait a few seconds and sort of "surprise" me with a shift. Is this normal for these trucks... Am I just being paranoid?

 

[bmoeller]

Welcome to the TDR!



There is no 5th gear. What you are feeling is the torque convertor lock-up clutch engaging. Sometimes the throttle position sensor (TPS) needs adjusted or cleaned, but generally it seems to be "normal". It is more noticable at light throttle on my truck. If you hammer it, the line pressure in the transmision is higher, and the shift feels more firm.



Do a search on the forums using "TPS" as the key word. You will find more than enough reading on the subject.

 

[jsetina]

NWiegand, I had a problem with my trans just recently. Would not shift down into 1st , but before this started I noticed that the shifting was somewhat erratic. May be the beginnings of a transducer and or pressure solenoid gov in the trans. Make sure it is going into first a stop so you are not pulling away in second like I was doing, could have burned trans if it were not for these guys , great wealth of knowledge in this community.

 

[RowJ]

NW

Agree with above. If you are light on throttle, ie. babying it, (like we all do with new truck) and it is ready to shift, you will get the symptoms you mention. To test, take it out on open road from dead stop. Using at least 1/3 throttle - run through the gears. There are 2 "shifts" in third. One into third, and one when the torque converter locks up. The lock up is only about 2-300 rpm drop (feels like a 4th gear). The shift into Overdrive is 500 rpm +/- drop. If your transmission shifts well in the test - your ok! Just need to learn to "power" thru the shifts.

Suggest changing fluid if you don't know maintenence history. Stock trannys need ATF+4. Full synthetic like Amsoil's ATF is good investment for max protection & longer transmission life.

Welcome & good luck!

Rowland

 

[NWiegand]

Wow! Thanks for all of the info. I think I'm just being paranoid about my new truck. Another question: Where can you buy amsoil products? Do you have to order it directly from them or do they have a distributor? Again, thanks for the information.

 

[jsetina]

You can go to their web site and buy it there, but I suggest contacting them and ask for distributer in your area. That is how I found the guy I use, he was just down the street from me. Could get lucky and find someone in you neighbor hood. I use 15/40 Amsoil Marine ,cost me about $65. 00 not including the filter. 3 gals with a filter for 2001. 5. Good luck with your truck

 

[ntillm01]

If you are new to a diesel engine too, auto trans shifts are scheduled different than gas-power. It has to do with the way diesels make torque. Feels kinda delayed, then it hits the next gear which pulls hard and really accelerates the truck after the shift which kinda kicks you in the butt!