my 96 intrepid is not going into 3rd gear so i can't drive over 45 and even then im running about 3500 rpm so it gets pretty hot it also likes to pop out of gear around 25-30mph going into 2nd but it will go back in if i let off the gas should i replace the tranny because i can get one from a scrap yard for $80 or is this a simpler problem that won't be so time consuming because i am working a delivery job and replacing the tranny will take 3-4 days

 

Have you tried fluid and filter change? Any other symptoms like engine light, speedometer acting flakey etc?

 

i haven't checked the filter but the fluid is fine i also put the lucus tranny additive in it a week ago and yeah the check engine light is on and the speedo is fine might but might be slightly off around 40-45?

 

Check your engine codes. Is the speedo bouncing or going dead etc? Have you ever changed the filter and how many miles are on the car?

 

no i haven't changed the filter i haven't even drove 500miles in it yet and its in the lower end of 191,000 miles but the speedo isn't doing anything crazy like that

 

You should change the filter at least every 50k. I think the book calls for 20k (not sure). Anyway, it may be plugged. Easy fix if so. As for the speedo, that was in reguards to a sensor...not the filter. You still haven't told what your engine code is though.

 

$80 for a trans is a STEAL if it's good.

fluid is not your problem. these transmissions are well known for a failure of the od hub (does 3rd and 4th gear). rev, 1, 2 will work just fine. from your description, this sounds like the problem. a plugged filter will effect everything not just one gear.

it's pretty easy to swap these transmissions if you take a short cut getting the exhaust out. I cut the exhaust pipe about 1' behind the main cat. when I put it back together I use a stainless steel exhaust band clamp. works perfect and makes the job easier and faster.

 

yeah im not a mechanic at least not yet how do i check the engine codes and does it cost $? if it doesn't cost ill find out asap if so i gotta wait a bit till i have some money in my pocket

 

One method is turn the key from off to run three times and then stay on run (by run I mean the key possition before the starter turns over). The engine lamp will flash two digit codes eg blink blink pause blink pause pause then the next code. 55 is the last code to let you know it's done. A 55 by itself is not a fault, only the other numbers. These "MIL" codes are not the same as the p code from a scan tool and need to be looked up seperatly. Just let me know if you get any codes.

The other option is go to a parts store and ask them to scan your car. Most major stores do this as a free service. This will give you the p code. If you use this method, make sure to specify with the preceesing letter p.

 

IDK why you'd check engine codes for a trans problem. you really need a scanner to get transmission information, code readers and blinking MIL won't solve this problem what so ever.

you said you can get a trans for $80, you should go that route. but since you say you don't have the mechanical ability then make some friends with people that are. i'd do it for you for some trading.