Not shifting

Tiny
ITSMESTEPH
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 DODGE DURANGO
  • 5.9L
  • 4WD
  • 200,000 MILES
Replaced the gasket and the pan. Replaced fluids. Still not shifting from 2nd won’t go over 30 mph. Not showing the check engine light. Thinking about replacing the speed sensor?
Saturday, September 5th, 2020 AT 7:57 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,858 POSTS
Staying in second gear is "limp" mode that allows you to drive slowly to a repair shop without needing a tow truck. There will be at least one diagnostic fault code in the Transmission Computer. The first step in the diagnosis is having that code read and recorded. The people at most auto parts stores will do that for you for free, but be aware they are in the business of selling parts. Fault codes never ever say to replace a sensor or other part, or that one is bad. They only indicate the circuit or system that needs further diagnosis, or the unacceptable operating condition. When a part is referenced in a fault code, it is actually the cause of that code about half of the time. First we have to rule out wiring and connector terminal problems, and things like that.

Once you know the fault code number(s), post them in your reply. You can go here:

https://www.2carpros.com/trouble_codes/obd2/p0400

to see the definitions, or I can interpret them for you. In the past the people at the auto parts stores could only read fault codes in the Engine Computer since they used simple, inexpensive code readers. Today a lot of them are using regular scanners that can access most of the dozens of computers in late model vehicles. If they can't read codes in your Transmission Computer, don't give up. Try a different store.
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Saturday, September 5th, 2020 AT 8:26 PM
Tiny
ITSMESTEPH
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
So I replaced the speed sensor today added only 4 quarts of transmission fluid. I was unaware that it needed 10 quarts of fluid if I’m correct. It is shifting now and driving like her normal self again. So now my question is, how many quarts of transmission fluid do I need?
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Sunday, September 6th, 2020 AT 11:03 PM
Tiny
CARADIODOC
  • MECHANIC
  • 33,858 POSTS
The way you worded your original post, it sounded like this problem started before you did the transmission service, and the new filter and fluid was an attempt to solve the problem. If this shifting problem actually only started after the service was performed, the transmission should have been slipping too. That would set fault codes related to "incorrect gear ratio" for one of more of the clutch packs. If that is what you find, those should be erased and disregarded.

This is from the service manual:

CAPACITY, Initial Refill [1]:
42RE, 44RE, 46RE. 9.1-9.5 L (19-20 pts.)

REMARKS:
[1] Dry fill capacity. These figures may vary depending on size and type of internal cooler, length, and inside diameter of cooler lines, or use of an auxiliary cooler. Check fluid level on dipstick according to applicable procedures.

Ten quarts would be what is needed to fill a newly-rebuilt transmission that is totally empty. When you do a filter and fluid change, only about half of the old fluid drains out. Four quarts to refill it would a good starting point. That's plenty to replenish the additives. After that, follow the directions on the dip stick. Typically it will say to run the engine until it is warm, shift through all the gears, from "1" to "park", wipe off the dip stick, then use it to measure the fluid level. There will be a range indicted that is acceptable. Add a little more new fluid if necessary.

Be sure to use the correct transmission fluid. Years ago there were just two kinds; one for Ford products, and one for everything else. That is no longer the case. Yours calls for:

MOPAR ATF+4, Type 9602

It contains special additives to allow the torque converter's lock-up clutch to engage gradually at lower speeds. That is done for comfort by eliminating the harsh jolt when it engages. With the wrong transmission fluid, you will observe a rather severe shudder when partial lock-up occurs between around 30 - 40 mph.
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Monday, September 7th, 2020 AT 2:43 PM

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