I have a 98 Dakota, 5.2, 4x4, 44re. I have no reverse and it is in limp mode. Ive dropped the pan and have a filter and sensors to replace. Theres metal sludge residue on the Valve Body and was wondering the best way to clean it without removing the vb. Should I use Brake Cleaner, Sensor cleaner? Please steer me in the right direction. Thanks

 

if it's plugged enough to stop it moving cleaning isn't going to fix it, you need a rebuild or a new trans

 

Truck runs and drives. What do you mean by not moving?

 

no reverse is a sign of a bad part, the metal sludge is remnants of clutches

 

So do you think the loss of reverse and the sludge mean the tranny is gone. Both the front and rear bands are pretty loose but there was no chunks in the pan. The tranny was driven that way for almost a year from my understanding. I only reason I thought it was electronic/maintenance was because there is no slippage. I'd hate to scrap this thing

 

without opening it up can't say for sure, but if you lose a gear it's not a good sign

 

I would change the trans filter with one like pro king and put in Royal purple max atf fluid. It has been known to help clear passages.

 

Please don't use any cleaner. Transmission fluid is a grade above kerosene. So if u see any sludge then someone used bad or wrong fluid. At+4 is the fluid.
Just use royal purple max atf.

 

Ok, by sludge I meant fine metal oil residue. I was afraid to use any chemical to clean the fine metal residue off of the existing electronics on the vb. I just wanted as much advice from you experts before I complete the filter/solenoid change. Please feel free to school me if you have the time

 

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