Occasionally , there is a bump when tranny downshifts from 2nd to 1st. How big of a problem is this, how long will tranny last , and is there a fix other than new tranny?
Thanks

 

Not a transmission problem, depending on what year it is, a simple quicklearn done at the dealer will correct the problem. Possible that the front pump is going bad, there is a TSB on that issue. It mostly a software issue than a hardware issue.

 

Its a 98 with a 41TE, 4 speed. I called one dealer and they said there wasnt any updates for the software. Would a quick learn still take care of it?

 

Yes the quicklearn will fix the downshift bump. Has it been run low on fluid, or is the fluid low now?

 

As far as I know , It was just a hair above the add mark. Havent had it very long so Ive been keeping an eye on things. I found a cooler line leaking a little. Dealer recommened changing the fluid and said that may take care of it. He said if not ,bring it in and they could give it a try. Ive heard different dealers say different things though. One dealer says the +3 fuid is discontinued and you have to use +4 ( I think they are full of *&@!), They also recommended adding Lucas additive. This dealer says absolutly not..use ONLY +3 fluid in a 98. I have also heard some people say that flashing and relearning only fixes older models and that its an internal problem on newer models. I hope your right!!!!!

 

Don't ever use additives in Chrysler Trannys, not recommended (that is right from the engineers). ATF +3 from Chrysler is being discontinued, it will no longer be available at the dealers by the end of the year. ATF +4 is a much better fluid and can be used inplace of ATF +3. The quicklearn will take care of your bump stop.

 

ok Ill give it a try! Thanks for the info. Are you a mechanic or just experienced chrysler owner? These message boards are great for getting info!

 

Im a tech, professionally 13 years now.

 

Cool, thanks for the info. How much will they charge to do a quick learn? Do these vans use valve cover gaskets..LOL? Everyone that I looked at had the valve covers seeping.... and rust on the top of the strut tower. Im about to disconect the alarm. Have set if off twice while cleaning it. Had the door open and hit the locks and set it off some how.
Thanks again

 

The quicklearn takes all of 5 minutes to do. Plus maybe a road test as that resets all of the trans controller learned values. So maybe a half hour of labor. Yes they eat valve cover gaskets, usually the front one as all of the heat from the radiator blows back onto it, the rear one doesn't go that often. There is a strut tower cap available to band-aid the rusting strut tower (available as a TSB part). Can be done yourself if you have a big heavy duty riveter.