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help with dodge caravan trannie


pullrumking
02-06-2006, 02:28 PM
Ok here goes
i have a 1992 dodge caravan 3.3 v6 automatic with over drive the transmission went out so i replaced it... and now that i replaced the tranny its not shifting right it shifts low and 3rd but thas it it wont go into overdrive.. but if i stop turn the van off and manual shift from park to low then shift into 3rd then shift into o/d it will catch o/d but it slipps a lil at first untill you stop... then when u take off it will shift up to 3rd but wont go back into overdrive.. im so lost i know they sell a gear shift relay but i dunno where its at or how to install it... and i dont know if its the problem... what do you guys think i should do... im willing to try anything..:banghead:.... could it possible be a pinched wire or something i dunno guys i have racked my mind... the transmission i took out did the same thing but if u flipped the key off and on it would go into o/d... lol i tried that with this one and it wont even go into o/d.

neon_rt
02-06-2006, 03:33 PM
When you say you "replaced" the trans, did you get a used one from the junkyard or did you get a certified new/rebuilt one with a warranty?

Also, these transmissions require a special fluid (MOPAR ATF+ series) is there a chance that it has the wrong fluid in it? Before you say "no, I had it done at a trans shop", I will say that a lot of trans shops put the wrong fluid in them in the first place so you can bring back the trans in a year or so for a rebuild. It seems to be a trend that we all have experience with here.

Because these transmissions are computer controled with solenoids instead of mechanical control. The computer keeps a record of the transmission parameters so it can maintain shift quality and proper operation as the transmission ages/wears out. This is why these transmissions don't feel like they are getting wore out until they suddenly fail. This has the drawback in that if you change or rebuild the transmission, you need to have the trans controler "flashed" and parameters reset to zero. Then you are supposed to go thru a "rapid learn" procedure to adapt the controller to the trans without ruining the trans. If you don't follow the procedure, you may actually damage a good transmission before the computer can adapt on it's own. Some people go through trans after trans, never again does their vehicle become dependable, because they don't understand the factors involved.

janandkyle
02-06-2006, 07:37 PM
you dont have to reflash the controller, just reset it by disconnecting the battery for a minute. also alot of times the controller screws up. this happened to me and i replaced it with one from a junk yard for $30.00.

trannyman52
02-07-2006, 08:18 PM
You should get the thing scanned ,,,,,problem could be one of 2 sensors or a damaged clutch pack,,,,,may be wiring but scanning will get you in the right direction,,,,,,,,dextron III,,,,,chrysler 3+ atf will NOT cause this problem!!!!!
could also be controller box ,,,seeing problem hasn't changed much since trans was replaced,,,,fault or "take home" is third gear,,,all electronics can
take a dump,,,and you will still have 3rd and rev ... gbaum

neon_rt
02-08-2006, 10:15 AM
"Limp" mode is 2nd gear and reverse.
If the (wrong) fluid is in the trans, the debris caused from the clutch deterioration can cause all kinds of weird problems. That is not to say that is what is wrong with it. I think the possibility of it being a computer/electrical problem needs to be eliminated first. Then if the trans doesn't work, the solenoid pack should be checked, if it is good then the trans (mechanical) needs fixed. I've seen a lot of shops fix the mechanical and ignore everything else, turns out to be an electrical or computer problem that caused the first trans to fail in the first place and the rebuild was for nothing.

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