1997 Plymouth Voyager Transmission lockup

PAUL10

MEMBER
1997 PLYMOUTH VOYAGER
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
145,000 MILES

Engine: 3.0L
transmission 3 spd

After transmission fluid/filter change at Saturn Dealership, where I purchased at wholesale cost, I drove van approx. (1) week. At speeds over 35
mph, transmission would downshift to 2nd gear.

Finally, it began to creep forward, so it's now parked next to my garage and won't go in either forward or reverse.

I suspected Service Technician put in wrong fluid. I purchased required amount of ATF+4 fluid (recommended), and plan to completely drain pan and torque converter and replace fluid and filter myself.

History of vehicle shows transmission was rebuilt at 70,000 mi.

Would I be wrong to assume that the transmission solenoid for this transmission A604? Needs replacement or could it be a computer/electrical problem that I can fix?

I'm a student and I cannot afford a costly replacement ttransmission.

I've heard that these problems were common with this transmission?

Is there any information you can give to help me?

Thank you in advance for your solution.

Paul

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,871 POSTS

You listed a 3 speed transmission. Is that correct? The A604 is a 4 speed.

I use a 1988 Grand Caravan with the 3 speed transmission to pull an enclosed trailer that's bigger than the van and have never had a problem. I have two minivans with the 4 speed. That transmission would explode before I got to the end of the driveway! The wrong fluid in the 3 speed transmission will cause a shudder for a second or two during torque converter lockup. It can be duplicated for verification by holding the gas pedal steady above 45 mph, then tapping the brake pedal. That will make it unlock and lock back up in a couple of seconds. If you feel a shudder every time it locks up, suspect the wrong fluid.

Caradiodoc