Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) transmission shudder

[Godzilla1]

Just returned from a camping trip towing our 30' travel trailer. This was the first time towing with this truck. I experienced a bad shudder between 1st and 2nd climbing a hill it almost felt like a slipping clutch on a manual, I already called the dealer to get it in for service to see if they can figure it out, but the only time it seems to do it is when under load, any info will be valuable to take to the dealer, I'm not to impressed with there service department, since the free oil change i recieved when I bought the truck, the filter wasn't tight.

 

[brickerd]

I had this same problem, as it turns out it's fixed in a TSB. I don't have the info around me now, but it had something to do with the Torque Converter going into and out of lock-up. A computer flash about 1 year ago, and I've never had a problem since (at lest with that). Hope this helps.

 

[PCrable]

Zainman,

My truck is doing something similar now. It's a shudder mostly noticeable between first and second gear when you're not giving it much (or any) throttle. (likely when the transmission line pressure is very low).



I already had the TSB fix for the transmission going in and out of lock-up... I think that only affects the Torque Converter lockup in 3rd and 4th. The TSB was a reprogram of the PCM to deal with some electrical interference issues.



If you hear of anything, I'd like to know...



Thanks,

--Phil

 

[Godzilla1]

Truck went in for service, they said they can't duplicate the problem, do you remember the TSB #? The truck is back in today for a brake fluid leak inside the cab, I'm heading to Michigan for the Nascar race in 11 days hauling the trailer. Do any members know of a good dealer in southern Mich. just in case?

 

[PCrable]

Zainman... doesn't look likely that it would affect your model.



TSB - 18-02-99

Model - All

Subject - Erratic torque converter clutch (TCC) operation.



This information applies to vehicles equipped with a 5. 9L 24-valve diesel engine and automatic transmission built between January 1, 1998 and December 18, 1998. Some vehicles may exhibit a surge-like condition while in fourth gear. This may be caused by the TTC unlocking and locking when it should be consistently locked. The cause of this erratic operation has been identified as electrical noise from the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) or Alternator. This bulletin involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) with new software (calibration changes 98cal12 and 99cal14).

 

[Godzilla1]

pcrable, thanks for the info, I will update if and when something goes wrong

 

[WadePatton]

Me Too!

or Mom too, anyway.



Same thing, shudder taking off with little throttle.



Come on Auto transmission guys, fill us in.