When shifting the transmission into drive or reverse it jerks and the engine shuts off?

1994 CHEVROLET TRUCK
200,000 MILES • 5.7L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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KENMO
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I start it and idles fine. I put it in drive or reverse and the jerk is very hard. Then the truck shuts off but will crank right back up and sits and idles.
Apr 27, 2023 at 8:58 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like the torque converter may have failed. When the engine is running, the engine is still turning along with the impeller In the torque converter. However, the turbine cannot turn. If it does, what you described happens. Basically, this is what happens when you have your car's engine running, the transmission is in gear, and you have your foot on the brakes and not moving.

What I suggest is to first make sure there are no diagnostic trouble codes stored. This vehicle has an OBD 1 system that doesn't require a scan tool. All you need is a short jumper wire or even a paper clip. Follow the directions in this link and let me know what you find:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Take care,

Joe
Apr 28, 2023 at 4:51 PM
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