I blew the spider gears into little pieces on my old AWD (179K miles, 1994), and it had too much rust to invest $1300 for a rebuilt trans.

I just found another 1994, this one has 109,000 miles and is rust free. The owner describes that once it has been on the highway, the trans starts to slip in 3rd gear from 35 - 40 mph. This is not a model with a programmable Trans Control Module so I'm not sure what to do.

Do you think I should just invest $1300 for a rebuild right away, or do you think I should try the "+4 fluid/mopar filter/solenoid/etc" first? I hate to spend several hundred trying to fix it and then wind up still needing a trans.

I paid just $900 for the van, so I'm more than willing to invest for the transmission if that is what it takes. I'm planning to keep this van for many, many years.

 

I think you need to scan the transmission module for codes, CVI and a clutch test. Then post your findings. The controller maybe the same as this other vehicle. Are they both with 3.8 engines?

 

What is a CVI and clutch test? I've been using this site for diagnostic help.

edit: I've found details on the CVI test, seems straightforward enough, if time consuming.

 

CVI= Clutch Volume Index. All transmissions need to be within a spec. This is how much fluid that applys the clutches. If the spec is too high, that can cause slippage. Or you may just need an overhaul kit. That comes with all seals and clutches, and snap rings. A kit may cost 200.00 dollars.

 

Master Tech, thanks for the info on the trans CVI and pressure tests. I have a question for you:

I'm getting conflicting opinions from transmission service specialists about the TCM on these cars.

One says that the TCM can be flashed/reprogrammed, and for reference the service advisor pointed out that there is a service sticker on the TCM on my current 1994 van (dated 1996).

Another says that the TCM is not programmable, and if necessary may require replacement if there is an update.

Which is the truth?

 

Yes the TCM can be programed. But the dealer needs the adapter to program the TCM. If the dealer has been around for a long time, they will have the adapter.