i have a 1997 dodge ram 1500 5.2L V8 with 110,000 with a auto trans. i just got the truck a month ago, and it has started to have transmission problems. such as not wanting to shift until 3500rpm's, down shifting speratically, dropping to neutral while driving. my friend said all it needs its a transmission flush and filter and it will fix it. i dont know to much about automatic transmission but but what i do know is it aint right at all. what are some common problems and solutions for a guy with a cheap budget and limited tools like me.

 

Welcome to DF

Did you check the fluid level? And is the check engine light on? What I would do, is put the shift lever in low gear and move the lever up. I would like to know if the transmission upshifts into the next gear.

 

Yes the fluid is good, and when I manualy shift it from 1st to 2nd you can feel the transmission shift from one gear to another

 

Don't flush the trans. That is a recipe for disaster. Unless it has been done on a regular basis, it will do more harm than good.

Try this:

Disconnect the 8 pin connector on the trans, drivers side, about halfway back. It goes straight down into the trans.

Go for a drive. Keep in mind, you will have ZERO automatic function, you will have to shift gears manually, and you won't have TCC, or O/D either, so, don't go far, and certainly don't tow haul anything like that.

If the trans shifts nicely, when you tell it to, then all you have is an electrical problem. Pick up the heavy duty governor pressure solenoid, and sensor, from seller ElectricalAdvantage on EBay, pick up a filter kit for your trans, and at least six quarts of fluid. Drop the pan, change the sensor and solenoid, refill the trans, hook things back up, make sure you fluid level is correct, and you should be golden. Bear in mind, you must check fluid level with the trans in neutral. Checking in park will give you an inaccurate reading.

 

Well I was messing with my radio and had to take the face of the dash off and I just tried to see if I could tell if it did shift from 1st to 2nd and now it doesn't manualy

 

Disable the electronics, and try it.

 

The most likely problem is the valve body assy. But to be on the safe side, Remove the pan and inspect for debris, like a kick down strut. If you don't have any debris in the transmission, then replace the valve body.

 

110,000 miles is time to be adjusting bands as well.

 

i found an external trans filter. use ONLY steel brake lines. copper WILL break off. the factory uses steel for a reason!!!! mopar most use 3/8 dia tube, but some might be 5/16. i think most have the fluid in at the rear left side. here is an EXTERANL filter, i found. have one on my 01 dak. my idea is when you put a new filter in side this one will help from having to do the inside one as often.*
the old auto zone 2210 magenfine filter is no longer available at auto zone. BUT i did find the same thing as JX-160 brand-- ATP. at a real parts house uses 3/8" tube. a JX-150 for 5/16 tube. And NAPA 18721. ONLY use high pressure hose. If you must. SAE J1019 217 psi working. NOT fuel hose for a carb engine.

 

Nice write up Moe. Good information.