99 Ram 1500 4x4:

When its cold and put into reverse there is this really loud "Whining" noise....It goes away once taken out of reverse, and does not happen at all when the trucks warm.

Ive actually read on a few other forums that this is normal operation?

Thought id run it by you guys...

Having no other transmission issues. Fluid is clean and bright red, no burnt smell, shifts good.

 

Reverse buzz is caused by fluid passing by a cold manual valve upon reverse engagement. It is a common, though unwelcome design flaw in the stock transmission. It will not cause damage.

Several transmission parts manufacturers make manual valves that do not buzz, if you care to install them.

 

Here is the TSB that came out, Just like aim4squirrels had said.
NO: 21-08-99
SUBJECT: "Buzz", "Whining", Or "Moaning" Like Noise From A Cold Transmission When Reverse Is Selected.
DATE: April 30, 1999
OVERVIEW:
This bulletin involves replacing the transmission regulator valve.

NOTE: THIS INFORMATION APPLIES TO VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A RE OR RH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION.

SYMPTOM/CONDITION:
Some vehicles may exhibit an intermittent noise from the transmission when reverse gear is selected. This noise has been described as a "buzz", whining", or "moaning" like noise. The noise is most noticeable when transmission fluid temperature is below 38 C. (100 F.). The condition is caused by a resonance of the transmission regulator valve system.

Other items may cause regulator valve resonance, including air ingestion into the valve body or out of specification parts. These two items may be the result a possible cracked pump housing, a torn pump gasket, an under filled transmission, a restricted fluid filter or cooler flow, or an out of specification valve and/or valve body. You should remember these additional items / components when you perform your diagnosis.

Vehicles built prior to August 1, 1995 may experience this condition if either a transmission valve body or an entire automatic transmission was replaced with components manufactured after August 1, 1995.

DIAGNOSIS:
Using the Diagnostic Scan Tool (DRB III®) with the appropriate Diagnostics Procedure Manual, verify all engine and transmission systems are functioning as designed. If Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s) are present, record them on the repair order and repair as necessary before proceeding further with this bulletin.

For 1996 and 1997 model year product, review Technical Service Bulletin 21-11-97 Rev A to determine if it applies to this vehicle before attempting to complete the analysis or repairs described in this bulletin.

In most instances, the sump temperature of vehicles exhibiting transmission regulator valve resonance in reverse has been less than 38 C. (100 F). If possible, allow the suspect vehicle to remain parked in a cool place overnight. Then perform the following steps:

Set the vehicle parking brake.
Start the engine (make certain windows are closed, to eliminate outside noise).
With brakes applied, place the transmission selector lever in reverse.
Listen for any buzz/moaning/whining like noises as the transmission sump temperature rises to normal operating temperature (180 – 210 degrees F).
If a buzz/moaning/whining like noise is present, perform the Repair Procedure.
PARTS REQUIRED:
Qty Part No. Description
1 04130169 Valve Steel Transmission Regulator
1 02464324 Gasket, Transmission Pan
AR 05010124AA Fluid, ATF Plus 3, Type 7176E

 

Ahh I see, so nothing to worry about then?

I can deal with the noise, I don't use reverse much when its cold anyways.