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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
 
3/31/2004
23:17:59
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 Subject: transmission Q & A
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ok guys, ive been doing some research on here and it sounds to me like the trannys in these dakotas are pretty crappy. i have a 98 dakota 4x4 5.2L auto w/OD, and since ive had it ive tried to be real gentle with the transmission b-cuz of the stuff ive read on here. i use my truck to drive back and forth to work about 4 miles each way and to haul my quads and dirtbikes to the track on weekends. i usually have 2 bikes in the back and 2 quads on a 8x9 trailer that weighs around 400lbs. it has about 55,000 miles on it now and im worried about my tranny. how long do you think it has until it goes?? should i get another truck?? what is the most common problem with the tranny and what are some signs to look for?? any helpful preventative measures i can take?? i heard some people talk about synthetic tranny fluid, so i might do that. anyways......any help is very appreciated.
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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
4/01/2004
12:37:05
| RE: transmission Q & A
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hmmmmmmmm......anyone??
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01dakota355
Dodge Dakota
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4/01/2004
12:46:37
| RE: transmission Q & A
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First of all, don't believe all you read. In a forum, you'll tend to hear more about problems and less about positive aspects. Just make sure to do regular fluid changes, possibly add a tranny cooler, and never use overdrive when towing a heavy load. Maintain it well, don't abuse it, and you'll be fine.
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Dak97
Dodge Dakota
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4/01/2004
13:15:05
| RE: transmission Q & A
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I completely agree. Keep up the maintenance. Every manufacturer has problems. I read that the Ranger/Explorer owners complain as much about their transmissions, both auto/manual. Nissan is also notorious for crappy automatics. Daks trannys aren't bad but as with any vehicle, keep it properly maintained with good tranny fluid either ATF-4 or amsoil, etc.
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daffydak
GenIII
4/01/2004
13:44:49
| RE: transmission Q & A
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maybe a tranny cooler would help. also a shift kit should help with longevity. my 98 dak 3.9 rc has a lil over 52k on it. i run the crap out of it (3 or 4 wot runs a week passing alot of semi trucks etc etc) one thing i have heard, i don't kow if its true. but if you idle for extenged periods, put your parking brake on and put the tranny in neutral. i have herd that saves the pumps. but again, i don't know how true that is.
just my .02
Dan
mopar=mopower
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spt
Dodge Dakota
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4/01/2004
15:20:48
| RE: transmission Q & A
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I have a 1988 4x4 5 speed Dakota with 183,000 miles on it and it still has the orignal tranny and clutch. The only thing I have done with the tranny is regular oil changes. For the most part I am not hard on my truck but I do use it for hauling, hunting, offroading so it does get some abuse. Maintenance is the most important thing.
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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
4/01/2004
23:28:09
| RE: transmission Q & A
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well, i had them put in a tranny cooler when i bought it and when i tow i usually tow in OD on the freeways but i am careful not to let it shift back and forth. on hills i let it shift down, then i turn off the OD until i get leveled out and it can cruise without shifting. (im guessing its the shifting back and forth while towing that causes tranny problems, is that right???) typically i only tow around 2000 lbs, probly a little less, but sometimes we all get together with our quads for a dune trip, and i have towed about 5000 lbs on a 7 hour drive. i just dont want something to go wrong cuz i really love this truck and i hate it when bad surprises come up, especially when it costs alot of money
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spt
Dodge Dakota
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4/02/2004
09:41:51
| RE: transmission Q & A
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Check your owners manual to see if it is ok to overdrive when towing. I have allways thought you should never use overdrive when towing or under heavy load. This will shorten the life of your tranny a lot. At work here we have been told that we should never use overdrive when hauling or under heavy load and the trucks we drive here are heavy duty 3/4 ton and 1 ton trucks.
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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
4/02/2004
21:41:33
| RE: transmission Q & A
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why does it hurt the tranny so much though. if its not shifting back and forth i dont see how its any different than being in a lower gear (besides higher rpms and burning more gas) is it a computer thing or mechanical like a crappy torque converter or something??? im confused.......and worried. i paid to friggin much for this truck to have something go wrong with it.
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Just Me
Dodge Dakota
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4/02/2004
22:20:20
|  RE: transmission Q & A
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My manual says to tow with the overdrive off. A tech was emphatic about this when I asked about it. I hear towing with the overdrive on creates a lot of heat even without back and forth shifting. I have the 5-45rfe which gets its second overdrive off the second gear clutch pack,logic says second gear may wear out faster. Driving with the overdrive off in city driving and towing may keep second gear from wearing faster than the others. I am not a mechanic, just relating what I have learned. If anyone cares to correct or add to this is welcome.
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spt
Dodge Dakota
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4/02/2004
22:59:05
| RE: transmission Q & A
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I cut this from an article, its a bit more info. Be sure to call your dealer and talk to a mechanic and ask him as well.
Automatic transmissions overdrive saves you fuel. And on fairly flat roads with the right engine combinations you can use overdrive with a load. Generally overdrive has no engine braking ability even on level ground. I m near the mountains and here you don t use the overdrive on an auto tranny when you are loaded. Coming down the mountain loaded in overdrive can be freewheeling life threatening experience. Overdrive as I said earlier is designed to save fuel not slow you down. The transmissions will also generally run cooler under a heavy load if you shift down one gear out of overdrive. This allows the pumps in the tranny to increase line pressure and provide better cooling. Synthetic oil can also help auto and manual transmissions run cooler. If you pull heavy loads, having synthetic oil in the differentials can add life to them. Synthetic oil doesn't tend to thin out in the cold as much as mineral based oil. Synthetic oil will build oil pressure in the engine sooner also. This is a big advantage in overhead engines
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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
4/03/2004
07:36:49
| RE: transmission Q & A
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Message:
that was a great answer, that was what i was looking for. now i kinda have a better understanding of why they go bad and i can hopefully prevent mine from going out
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AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
4/03/2004
08:29:28
|  Amsoil = www.american-synthetic-oil.com = Amsoil
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Message:
spt,
Thank You ... and I will repeat your comments:
"Synthetic oil can also help auto and manual transmissions run cooler. If you pull heavy loads, having synthetic oil in the differentials can add life to them. Synthetic oil doesn't tend to thin out in the cold as much as mineral based oil. Synthetic oil will build oil pressure in the engine sooner also."
AMSOIL Synthetic Universal ATF
Recommended for applications requiring the following specifications:
Chrysler ATF+, ATF+2, ATF+3, ATF+4
Larry of J&J Auto uses Amsoil Synthetic ATF in his transmissions.
-------------------------------------------------
AMSOIL Synthetic Universal Transmission Fluid (ATF) is a universal ATF designed to "EXCEED" nearly all foreign and domestic performance requirements. It improves fuel efficiency, reduces transmission temperatures by 20 to 50 degrees F and increases transmission life. Provides unsurpassed thermal stability and at least "3 TIMES THE LIFE" of conventional ATFs. Delivers maximum protection for towing and other severe-duty applications. Formulated with synthetic basestocks and the "TOP_OF_THE_LINE" Additive Package, AMSOIL ATF provides top performance, durability & efficiency.
Key Benefits to You:
----- Cleaner transmission components
----- More efficient power transfer
----- Lower Transmission temperatures
----- Dramatically less transmission wear
----- Smoother cold temperature operation
----- Long drain intervals.
Compatible Applications: Nearly all passenger cars (foreign & domestic), Nearly all light duty trucks (including Dodge Dakotas).
__________________________________________________
For a FREE Amsoil Catalog you can click below.
Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com
AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products
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AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
4/03/2004
08:40:55
| Amsoil Testimonials Amsoil Synthetic ATF
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A Testimonial from Larry of J and J Auto
Everyone Respects Larry of J and J Auto ... correct? I hope so!
Here is his quote from another thread (hope you don't mind Larry!
Larry of J and J Auto stated:
"Amsoil Universal Trans Fluid or the chrysler ATF+4 are the only fluids we use in these trans at the shop.
I have been running it (Amsoil) in my trans for about 30,000 miles now, made the trans shift smother and run almost 30 degrees cooler. I also run it in my transfer case.
I run all Amsoil even the rear ends and grease it with the syn fortified with molly. Yes I have a trans temp guage in my truck also a nordask Air/Fuel meter on its own o2 so I can monitor my stroker very closely
The Amsoil runs very good in these transmissions."
Larry
J&J Auto
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I am going to quote another Member of this website, BigBlue QC. (He won't mind ... I have exchanged emails with him on a few occassions).
BigBlue QC states:
"I have had perfect luck with AMSOIL ATF in my trans, it has been in the truck for 60000 miles, tested twice, with perfect results each time. Good luck. 14 quarts for a complete flush, another 1-1/2 quarts if you have a 4x4 for the transfer case, which you have to drain and re-fill. You will need a pump for the transfer case to re-fill. If you bought whatever you decide locally why can't you return whatever you don't open??? Having an extra 2 quarts on hand while doing this is not a bad thing as a just in case."
" ... the 14 quarts is with the tranny cooler as I have one also." "... it has been over a year since I changed the transfer case to AMSOIL ATF. I remember filling to the hole level and then buttoning it up. Haven't had any problems with it. I am a preferred customer for AMSOIL (I pay the $20/year to get the wholesale pricing) and I remember it is cheaper to get the bigger jugs of fluid, like 2-1/2 gallons, when you need larger quantities. 2-1/2 gallons is 10 quarts, if you got two of them it should be enough for the trans, transfer case, and power steering. Yes, I have changed the power steering fluid in my truck to AMSOIL ATF also (my year uses ATF+4 as the ps fluid) with no regrets."
__________________________________________________
THANKS Larry and BigBlue QC!
Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com
AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products
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AmsoilSponsor
DakotaEnthusiast
4/03/2004
08:51:01
| Amsoil Testimonials - Amsoil Synthetic Oil
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Should you be concerned about Amsoil in your Dakota?
DODGE DEALERSHIPS NOW ENDORSE (offer) AMSOIL !!!
This was posted by Sephiroth 3/20/2004
V8 Forum --- Subject: New Chrysler Product?!
Message posted by Sephiroth:
"I went in to have my brakes checked today, and when I walked into the garage the first thing I saw made my jaw hit the floor. My local dealership now uses and sells AMSOIL products!! They've got it posted on a big banner over the service-desks. GM may not have been able to get it for their 'vettes, but obviously Dodge was able to, or they found out how awesome it is and started buying at regular price! When I go in for a tranny-filter, fluid, and gasket change next week, it's getting filled with AMSOIL."
Sephiroth went on to state:
"This is at the Raleigh, NC dealership, Al Smith Buick, Dodge, Mazda. I told the guy at the desk I was astounded to see them using AMSOIL and that I had been using it for a while now. After he rode in the truck he said he'd be switching next oil-change in his Ram.
As for me, I've got it in the engine, and I'll have it in the tranny soon! Next up are the differentials. After that I need to get a dyno just for curiosity's sake. IF I get 3-5hp form the differential, and God knows how much from the engine and tranny, that'll be enough without any heavy mods. Well, for all I do anyway. If it is a significant gain, I'll post the results."
__________________________________________________
... and as part of the same thread jeremiah2360 stated:
"Norwood (MA) Dodge sells Amsoil too."
__________________________________________________
And as part of the same thread Larry of J and J Auto stated:
"Also swear by the Amsoil, I run it everywhere rear's, trans, grease."
_________________________________________________
Dodge Dealerships are beginning to realize that Amsoil offers a FULL LINE of Premium Synthetic Lubricants and Dodge Dealerships are beginning to offer Amsoil.
Why ...
1) Dodge knows Amsoil meets AND exceeds Dodge's requirements.
2) Because their customers are asking for Amsoil.
3) Amsoil = 30 Year History of Research and Development
4) Amsoil offers the best Synthetic Lubricants
__________________________________________________
Anyone interested in Amsoil can Request a FREE Amsoil Catalog below.
Steven Roark , Amsoil Dealer , Proud Sponsor of www.DodgeDakotas.com
AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils, Lubricants, Filtration, and Truck Care Products
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M.O.P.A.R.
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
4/03/2004
23:29:27
| RE: transmission Q & A
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O.K.
I know a definite cause of trans failure.
IF you have a hose between the lower cooler line
and radiator about 8 or 10 inches long.
It has a check ball in it.And this ball gets metal chunks and other crud on it.
When it clogs and you have no flow- your trans will blow. The fancy fluids ain't movin and are of no help.
I just bought my first Dak 2 weeks ago ('95 4x4 318 155000 miles) and happen to live behind the tranny shop I used to work for dyno-testing trannies. My friend (a 15 year employee)saw the truck and told me to take that hose off and drill out the ball IMMEDIATELY.
I had to put a starter in it first so the ball isn't out yet, but I'll probably put a new,longer hard line to replace the hose.
He also said to add an external cooler.
But never mentioned anything about the O.D.
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dabald
Dodge Dakota
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4/04/2004
00:23:55
| RE: transmission Q & A
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I noticed the dreaded 1-2 upshift problem too.
The shift kit helps this some what at low speeds, but helps it even more, the harder you are accelerating. The shift kit does seem to allow the shift points to delay a bit longer than before.
I drive around town with the O/D OFF, unless I go over 55 mph, which is when I'll engage O/D.
I had a local Transmission shop install a Trans Go shift kit, a Mopar 2400 RPM stall converter, a Moroso Tranny cooler, and some new bands and a new clutch pack.
Truck has 54K miles.
All together, they had the truck 2 days. It was probably a 1-1/2 day job, but the bands and clutch pack were an unknown, until they had the tranny out, delaying completion until the next morning, waiting on more parts. The clutch pack and bands showed some wear, so I had them replaced at the same time. The shop wanted to do a complete tranny rebuild. After much deliberation, it was decided to do the packs and bands only.
I watched him work on parts of the valve body. The shift kit came from KRC, and it had a video with it. I considered tackling the installation. I would gladly pay a professional to do this job again, as it was WAY more suited to someone who really knows transmissions, and rebuilds them daily. There are too many opportunities for small mistakes, that could be catastrophic.
Parts and labor, just over a grand. Was it worth it. On the second tank of gas since the tranny work, and I must say, the truck launches MUCH harder. It now hits nice and hard, as it catches second in a big way under hard acceleration. The shifts are no longer those long drawn out ordeals. I can't wait to get it on the track. I'm guessing I improved a minimum of .5 seconds in the 1/4 mile!
Also running the Amsoil and very happy...
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Wal
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
4/04/2004
09:50:17
| RE: transmission Q & A
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I have a 99 CC v8 and the RE tranny is awful. My old 92 v8 Dak with the RH trans was perfect for me though. I recently posted a question about the Jr. shift kit from Transgo vs. the regular shift kit, but no bites yet on an answer. Anyone?
My truck has this lousy "chuggle" feeling when it shifts 1-2 on low throttle acceleration, but the shift is actually good at 3/4-WFO throttle and it's also good when loaded. When I test drove a bunch of used Dak's from this era, I found they all did it. Weird :(
I'd like to get rid of that slop and I'd also like to keep the trans from downshifting into too low a gear. IOW, I mash the pedal and it will drop to where the truck is revving so high that there's no power! The truck is quicker if I am careful on the throttle not to hammer it until I am past where it could kick down that hard. Also, it holds the gears out too long on WFO many times. I'd like to dial back the shift points a tad to keep the motor in the power.
Sorry for the long-winded post, but if you have the shift kit installed, can you comment on how it'll work for me, given my wants?
Thanks!
Wal
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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
4/04/2004
19:06:11
| RE: transmission Q & A
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how much of a load would be too much for the overdrive?? if i towed 2 quads at 400lbs a piece on a trailer that weighs 400 lbs, with a dirtbike in the back of the truck at 200lbs, plus driver and passenger and gear.... is that too much? cuz it seems to drive just fine in overdrive going down the freeway cruising at 70mph. i always turn off the OD in town and on hills.
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siredward20
ProspectiveBuyer
4/12/2004
11:22:30
| RE: transmission Q & A
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where do we draw the line here guys? is a quad in the back of my truck too much?? im asking cuz i really dont know much about these tranny's and it just doesnt make sense to me that if youre driving on flat ground and its cruising along just fine in OD, how is it hurting the tranny? if the gears are meshed together and they arent shifting back and forth, how do they wear faster? i understand that anytime gears are rubbing it causes wear, but are the gears in this tranny that weak?? or is it a clutch thing??
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Nick
Dodge Dakota
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4/12/2004
13:53:42
| RE: transmission Q & A
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I had to have the transmission replaced in 4 of my last 5 cars before 30K (all Mitsubishis--you have to expect it with a Mitsu). I think that if you've made it to 55K without tranny problems, then it's probably okay. Any future problems would be caused by poor maintenance, not defective parts or design.
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