Question

[Hauser717]

I think I know the answer to this, but as an automatic transmission is a big, metal mystery to me, I have come to you experts for advice.

My '04 has 156K on her and I'm noticing some transmission oddities. Every once in awhile, when turning a corner, the transmission won't properly downshift when I start to accelerate out of the corner and the engine will begin 'dieseling'. All I have to do is goose the engine a bit, and she downshifts and away we go. This typically happens only when it is hot out so I haven't had this issue for the past month.

Lately, I have noticed what feels like slipping between 3 and O/D when the engine RPMs are a little low for O/D and sometimes between 2 and 3. I don't recall at the moment about where the RPMs are when this happens. Again, this is easily remedied by applying more gas or just turning off O/D altogether until I'm on the highway.

I have done maintenance on the tranny with a flush done at 80K and again at 145K. I can't speak as to what maintenance was done before 40K as I am the 2nd owner, but I doubt the fluid or filter was changed before I bought her 8 years ago.

I'm hoping this is as simple as a sensor that can be replaced, but my fear is that it is time for a rebuild which means I'd have to park her until I have the cash to get that done. This also means I'd need to get my Diplomat back on the road.

Any thoughts or recommendations would be appreciated.

[fastblackmerc]

First, check the fluid level. Instructions are in the owners manual.

Second, look and smell the fluid on the dipstick. Is it red or brown? Does it smell like fresh ATF or burned ATF?

If the fluid is low add some.

If the fluid is brown and / or burnt you have a problem.... rather your tranny does.

Cheapest thing to do is drop the pan and check for debris, if no debris install a new filter, flush the system and you might be good to go.

[Zack]

Interesting avatar bud.

[Hauser717]

Thanks for the quick reply, FastBlack.

I did check the fluid level and it is at the top of normal on the dipstick, is red and does not smell burnt. I don't have a place to drop the pan myself, but I've been told by a few people I trust about a transmission place that is reliable and does good work so I'll see if they'd be willing to check for debris at a reasonable price.

[Hauser717]

Interesting avatar bud.

Thanks, Zack! I had that pic taken as a joke and enjoyed it so much, I have made it my profile pic / avatar at just about every site I use. Except LinkedIn. Sticking with a professional pic there.

[camelgrundle]

The avatar is good but that shirt is great!

[lji372]

Thanks, Zack! I had that pic taken as a joke and enjoyed it so much, I have made it my profile pic / avatar at just about every site I use. Except LinkedIn. Sticking with a professional pic there.

Looks LinkedIn legit to me :D