Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) transmission Upgrades

[JoelMartin]

My friend has an 02 5. 9L auto transmission and he's wondering what would be the first thing in the transmission to upgrade? It is stock but he just doesn't like how it pulls a load. After he upgrades the transmission he might get a programmer also. He was thinking of getting an ATS torque converter but then someone else recommended a Dunrite converter and valve body. Suggestions?

 

[DCreed]

Do a converter/VB combo from your favorite quality vender. they need to work together to do well.

 

[BDaugherty]

I agree with the torque converter valve body statement. However, if he doesn't like the way it pulls, I would do the programmer first. I little extra power makes more difference than any trans upgrades.

 

[DCreed]

with a 6speed I'd agree, but he has an auto and ANY power enhancement with a stock auto is begging for trouble. Joel , have your friend upgrade the trans cooler and remove the check ball if he hasn't already.

 

[Misenheimer]

DCreed

The check ball is in the front line going to the cooler on the right side of the engine. I left mine in but checked it for operation. Should I have removed it anyway?? My trans takes a minute to go into gear from startup cold and I was thinking that it might even take longer to get into gear. The gassers have the check ball in the cooler line at the radiator.

Would appreciate your thoughts

Robert

 

[DCreed]

I was told no warranty will be honored if the ball wasnt removed.

 

[BDaugherty]

I guess it depends on how much power this guy is thinking about adding. I wouldn't do a big programmer, but one of the ones that don't do a wire tap would be fine. I had a '99 truck that I put a Banks Big Hoss Tuner on and it made a huge difference. The only trans mods I had was a PML pan. I pulled with it on a fairly regular basis. Later on I did a SunCoast converter in preparation for a big programmer and it really didn't help the performance or mileage with the small HP increase. I guess it really just comes down to useage and personal opinion.

 

[DCreed]

Joel, WHY does your friend not like how it pulls? If the transmission is too sloppy then upgrade it. If its just a dog then add power.

 

[JoelMartin]

It's too sloppy. Takes a long time to get the truck moving with a load.

 

[JoelMartin]

He's probably just gonna upgrade the transmission. Thanks for the help!

 

[Cummins Thunder]

If he is considering the Dunrite stuff I have been very happy with it in both of my dodge trucks.

 

[GaryF]

Since you are in Calif, don't consider DTT transmission. I have one and rev went out after 10k. They said i must have backed up a steep hill.

Gary