Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) transmission questions

[FishDoc]

My transmission is shuddering and is not shifting smooth. Also, some loss of power and decrease in fuel mileage. transmission rebuilt at about 60K miles at which time a heavy duty convertor was installed (I never could get brand name, so who knows?), the valve body plate had something done to it and some other updated changes were made. Current mileage is 130K. Worked on 10 days ago. Governor solenoid and governor sensor "tested" bad by independent garage. Also, oil badly burned. Parts replaced, system flushed and new, synthetic oil (27 qts. MOBILI ATF) installed.



Still not running well. Took it back and after 6 hours of 'free' testing, they said they couldn't fix it and to take it to dealer.



Dealer says the valve body plate probably needs drilled out and several adjustments to be made. ALSO, THEY SAID THAT SYNTHETIC OIL WAS BAD FOR TORQUE CONVERTERS AND THEY INSISTED IT NEEDED TO BE REFLUSHED AND ATF 4 INSTALLED! Is that last statement valid or it is simply the party line and a money maker?



Finally, the dealer said that if the valve body had been drilled out or replaced when the transmission was rebuilt, then the torque convertor would need to be replaced at which time they would replace several other items in order to ensure the best outcome.



Since it looks like I am heading to a complete rebuild, what else should I consider? Is the BD convertor the best, should I stick with stock convertor or is there another brand that I should consider? Any other items that need to be addressed at this time?



Thanks for the great help that I usually get from everyone.



FISH DOC

 

[nps]

If the old oil was burned then the clutches are probably slipping, and the new oil is most likely smoked also. Further if the dealer is changing out the TQ Conv and VB, the oil is going to be changed whether it is burned or not. So changing over to ATF-4 is not an issue - it needs changed anyway - but synthetic is fine and the dealer is full of BS. Now if the dealer refuses to warranty the job without ATF-4, then you have a decision to make - go with ATF4 or go somewhere else.



Personally I'd go somewhere else (actually I'd do it myself) because I would never let a dealer work on my truck. Find a good transmission shop that knows the Dodge transmission and let them fix it up.



I've heard good things about Goerends - you may want to give them a call and see if they have any recommendations for parts and/or a shop.

 

[Joe Mc]

FishDoc - w/130k on your trans I strongly recommend staying away from the dealer and getting the full tilt trans job from a reputable outfit that has developed product specifically for a diesel application. You get what you pay for if you shop and choose based on your need. Happy hunting.

 

[DPS]

Stay far far far away from a chrysler dealership they have very limited resources to improve your transmission. (all things on the aftermarket are NOT equal either!)



I sell Dave Goerends converters and use another's VB kit to get what I like. If you have any questions go to gbtransmissions.com for a very clear explanation of what you need to have done by a DIESEL transmission specialist. ALways remember Diesels are completely different animals and need to be treated as such.



I would use a name brand 3 disk torque converter, a quality performance towing valve body from what ever manufacturer of converter you choose, Goerends, ATS, Suncoast, or DTT( in no particular order) Then find a good shop to rebuild the transmisson with your choice of above mentioned parts along with several internal modifications (billet 2nd gear strut and kickdown lever, upgraded direct clutch seal and many others that are too numerous to mention. It is probably not necessary for you to buy a full blown "built" transmission unless you are more than 350rwhp.



Just my two cents and a little personal experience on many cust. trucks.



Josh



www.dieselperformancesolutions.com

 

[DieselRam30]

As has been said, stay away from Chrysler dealerships. There is no reason for you to have them rebuild a transmission that is probably going to fail again anyway. If the clutches are slipping, which is what seems to be the problem, it is time for a rebuild. Call a reputable company and ask lots of questions to determine what is the best option for you. IMHO get the whole job done at once with the best possible parts, that way there is little risk for transmission problems down the road. I know it will be pricey (been there... done that), but I think it is well worth it in the long run.