My 98 2wd 1500 (auto w/125,000 miles) started acting erratically the other day, IE: slipping in gear, motor dumping RPM's when coming to a stop or around turns, etc. I took it to a local shop and they diagnosed it as the torque converter being locked up so that the trans would not operate correctly and shift gears. The mechanic did state that they checked the sensor/solenoid and it was operating properly. Does thisproblem soundfeasible/typical and if so, wouldthe complete overhaul that they recommended be necessary? I was provided a cost of $2600 for the complete job.

Basically I am trying to determine the expense of fixing a dying horse or trading it in and getting a new truck.

Any input is appreciated!!

 

sounds about right.. actually it sounds like your gettin a deal..

 

its at the high side of the $1500-2500 range. make sure you're getting a major warranty, like 36,000 mi or lifetime.

 

A couple of schools of thought...
You could replace just the torque converter and A) keep driving until something else goes like the transmission (lol). Or, B) trade it quick before something else goes. OR...
Go for the overhaul and keep the truck. But with that kind of mileage, the transmission may not be long for this world anyway so if you're gonna keep it, commit to it and don't cheap out.
Shop prices though, to me that seems a little high.
WC

 

First I'd try a TPS, because that can cause several of the issues described above, such as rpm dumping and erratic shifting a low speeds, accelerating out of corners and hesitation.
I'd get a second opinion on the TC...usually the facing on the inside wears off and rather than being stuck in lockup, you lose it. I speak from experience.
Honestly, if the TPS fixes it, its still a matter of time. You should feel fortunate to have gotten 125 K out of your tranny. That beats my 118 k...

 

Absolutely get a second opinion - and if it is the torque convertor or even tranny, can you change it yourself and save some bucks? 2WD tranny is pretty straight forward work.