 shdesignsPowered By Infinite Improbabilty DrivePremium
join:2000-12-01
Stone Mountain, GA | reply to batsona
Re: Difficulty backing up driveway.... Check the level of the transmission fluid.
Often slow shifts is gummed up valves. Changing the fluid and filter will usuallly help.
Bought used, I'd replace the tranny oil and filter. If it has a hitch, I'd definietely change it as if used for towing, it is hard on the flud.
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Scott Henion
Embedded Systems Consultant,
SHDesigns home - DIY Welder |
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Tig
join:2006-06-29
Carrying Place, ON | Agree. It would seem that your tranny is slipping bad, which will damage it, given a chance. Check the fluid level, which is done on level ground with the engine running. |
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batsonaMaryland
join:2004-04-17
Ellicott City, MD Reviews:
 ·Vonage
 ·Verizon FiOS
| reply to shdesigns
OP here: Unfortunately, this 3.7L V6 has a limited-service transmission that has a plug in the dipstick filler, "Dealer Access Only". I've been to the Chrysler dealership, and begged them to check the fluid for me, and the guy used this long snake-like dipstick after he took that plug out. The level of fluid is measured in millimeters, and apparently it varies greatly w/ the temp of the trans. --so much so, that you have to consult a chart to see how many mm of fluid you should have, at a given temp. We had 85mm with the engine off (and at operating temp), and it went down to 74mm with the engine running.
I purchased a premium-level support plan when I bought it; hopefully it will cover any horrible repairs that may be needed. The transmission is manufactured by Mercedes, I'd read.... |
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| There are 12V oil change pumps made specifically to suck oil out of engines/trannies through the dipstick hole -- I'd get one, remove as much ATF as possible, and then put back the equal amount, or maybe a little more. Then send the oil that came out for oil analysis.
Disclaimer: I have one such pump and found it money well spent.
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Wacky Races 2012! |
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 Lurch77Premium
join:2001-11-22
Oconto, WI
kudos:4 | reply to batsona
A limited service transmission will still need maintenance if it was abused, such as heavy towing. I'd still inquire about getting a fluid and filter change.
Side note: These limited service engines, transmissions, etc, are horrible. They've removed the ability for an owner to easily do his own maintenance. |
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 jrs8084Premium
join:2002-03-02
Statesville, NC
kudos:1 | said by Lurch77:Side note: These limited service engines, transmissions, etc, are horrible. They've removed the ability for an owner anybody to easily do his or her own maintenance.
Fixed it for you. |
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