Every morning I drive the truck I need to let it warm up for atleast 10 mins now that its around -20ºC (Apparently -20ºF according to Google conversion tool) or else my transmission bucks and kicks and I don't go anywhere.

When it's finally ready to go I'll hop in the truck and carry on my way but I've noticed my transmission will still not be warmed up enough to go into OD.

Some mornings I have to restart the truck or else it won't drop go into OD at all. I could drive for 20 mins and I still don't have OD until I turn off the truck and restart it.

Once its warmed up I have zero problems with it locking in 4th, it performs just fine.

I know that my transmission is gonna die on me one day but so far it works fine if I let it warm up. I'm just wondering if I should switch ATF. Right now I am using Mobil 1 ATF 4.

I'm just debating if I should switch to Mopar fluid... Perhaps the fluid I am using now isn't as good and takes longer to warm up. I have tried idling the truck in Neutral (since I know the tranny pump doesn't circulate fluid in Park) but I don't see a difference in how long it'll take to warm up the fluid.

 

It's PCM programming. The trans has to reach a minimum temperature before the PCM will engage the lock-up convertor or the solenoid for the O/D gearset. I think it is 60F for convertor and 75F for OD but I could be mistaken. Also, I have reduced drive when trans is cold as well, it doesn't want to move.

 

Mine didn't do this prior to getting water in my tranny.

I'm thinking that maybe the fluid that I've already changed twice is still contaminated and therefore taking away some of its "performance" which may be why its taking so long for it to warm up properly.

Anyway - thanks for the info Magnet.

 

When is the last time you changed your ATF? You might have lost viscosity. I'm running Walmart SuperTech ATF-4 and no such issues. Also, you might want to drop the pan and replace both the screen and canister filters.

 

Fluid was flushed in July 2013 + filter change - had a shop do it so I dunno what type of fluid but definitely ATF4

Pan drop + filter change in Sept 2013 - refilled with Mobil 1 ATF4.

 

Just a note on Mobil1 ATF4. You're probably paying a premium for synthetic, you might as well use the Walmart brand and pay less. All ATF 4 is synthetic.

 

Did you install a drain plug in the pan (like I think I suggested?) Makes a fluid change really easy.

 

Its the only ATF 4 I can find locally.

Walmart only has the same brand but in 1 quart bottles.

Canadian Tire has he 5L jug for like $35 I think. Effin Canada

 

Apparently many missed this reference. At least, I didn't see any commenting on it.

reset.... go!

 

this might be a side note. but i found an EXTERNAL trans filter. i really like it. i think all of not most mopar trans are 3/8 size tubing. one of the few times i like hoses. check out
man o man i about forgot yes its a cut & past sorry. __________________
after you clean the trans. add this to your*chrysler*trans. an external fluid filter
1. go to auto-zone. get 2210, its called a power steering filter, but it is for transs to. it is for 3/8 tubing. by (magna-fine) be sure to use high pressure hose. Reff:http://www.magnafilter.com
2. for other sizes wix 58964 5/16 tube size