Hey,
I have a 1997 Dodge Ram 1500 with the small V-8 and automatic transmission. I was told a few months ago that i would no longer be able to drive because the tranny was slipping bad but the problem went away but does act up on occasion. It will not shift or stay in too high of a gear. Any suggestions on how to get this fixed and would it be worth it if I do decide to get a new tranny to go with a manual instead?? Always did like the manual better.. Just looking for some advice. Thanks.

 

The simplest thing I would try first would be a light transmission service and refill with Mopar ATF+4...unless a shop already told you it is bad. If that doesn't work...start looking around for a new tranny. There is a ton of tranny info on here if you do a search for it. Going from auto to manual requires a lot of work, and would probably cost more than getting a bullet-proof auto put in there...hope this helps some.

 

How does the fluid look and smell?

 

Yeah i went to a shop and they are the ones that said a couple of months ago i'd be lucky to get the truck home. I parked it for about a month but I have put well over 1,000 miles on it since and it hasn't gotten any worse. But i will start with the tranny service and new oil. As for how the fluid looks and smells I'm not quite sure on that one..

 

That is the first step in transmission diagnostics.

 

Go ahead and drop the pan...look at the quality of the fluid and for metal chunks. Some fine metallic material is normal...but not big pieces. The filter kits are pretty cheap...about $15 or so. Only put MOPAR ATF +4 back in it...and no miracle additives! Wal-Mart usually carries it...for about $5 a qt. Mine took about 6 qts. to refill after a light service. The service manual states that brown color to your fluid is normal as it gets used, but it should not be black or smell burnt.