Engine shuts off when transmission is shifted into gear

1994 CHEVROLET SILVERADO

250,000 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

THOMAS GLOVER

MEMBER
1 POST

I can jack it up, so the rear tires are off the ground and put it into gear and the wheels start spinning and the engine keeps running, but as soon as I apply the brakes, the engine shuts off. I replaced the TCC solenoid, but it didn't change a thing. All this started after my wife tried to jump-start my truck and fried the ignition coil and fusible link to the alternator. I replaced said items and got the truck to start, but as soon as I put it into gear it shuts off and that's where I've been stuck for the past two months. Help!

Apr 6, 2022 at 5:59 PM

KASEKENNY

✓Experienced Mechanic
18,907 POSTS

More than likely you are on the right path with this as I suspect the torque converter is stuck on.

Unfortunately, this is not caused by the solenoid causing it to stick on, it is due to the clutch remaining engaged.

By removing the load of the tires on the ground then that allows the converter to spin the axle even though the converter is engaged.

Basically, this is no different than letting the clutch out of a manual transmission with no throttle input and it stalls.

The way to figure this out is to start with checking the fluid and here is a guide that will help with this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-and-add-transmission-fluid

Then you need to review the info attached below for more detail on inspecting this and diagnosing it properly.

Please run through this info and let us know what questions you have. Thanks

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Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
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Apr 7, 2022 at 11:56 AM