I have a 2000 Durango R/T with the 5.9 of course and 188000 miles. When it is at normal operating temp it sometimes holds 1st gear for a minute, and then 2nd gear all the way up til 3500 and above rpms. My question is what could cause this? I changed filter and fluid and it still does this. Do I need to rebuild, or is it something simple? It shifts normaly when its cold, but when it warms up is when it starts doing this. Any help is greatful.

 

you could take it in to get the bands adjusted, and also take a look at the kickdown cable (tho i really doubt that is the issue), and normal operating temp should be in the middle of the temp gauge (mine doesnt have numbers on it, but it usually runs dead center or a little below) just rememberd stock t-stat is 190, so normal temp should prob be in the 200 range

 

Yup!

Sounds like it needs an adjustment.

 

Service the trans first. ATF+4 fluid swap, new Mopar filter and bands adjusted. NO FLUSH. Just drop, R&R and replace pan. Should be under $200 for service and parts. Do NOT settle for the trans shops ATF+4 compatible fluid. Insist on the real stuff or bring your own.

If the issue continues, it is the pressure governor solenoid.

IndyDurango

 

there is a check ball in the trans cooler line that keeps the fluid from draining back into the pan when its not running. sometimes this gets stuck and restricts fluid flow when hot. you can cut the fittings off the hose, knock out the ball with a punch, and replace the hose pretty cheap. the only draw back is you have to let it run a few extra seconds before pulling out because the fluid drains out of the cooler. small price to pay for insurance that there will be no restrictions in the lines.

 

If the one way ck ball/valve fails, you will know it.The one way ck valve is so the fluid doesn't drain back into the pump. In other words when you start the car or truck and drop it into gear and transmision feel like it slippping. Then 15 to 20 seconds later, the transmission will start shiftting normal. If the ck valve failed, the transmission will fail soon.

 

I changed the fluid and filter. The fluid that was in it was dirty looking. But it still does it.

 

My operating temp is usally around 180 Im guessing. Its between 130 and 210.

 

Please dont tell me that. Its my only vehicle right now.

 

Did you adjust the bands? If not, time to do it again. Then its the PGS.

IndyD