trans issue 3.8l
 

i was driving my car to pittsburgh and after the car got hot (around 210 which is where it usually runs) i started to have a trans problem. i was at a red light and it shifted hard from first to second no other gears just first to second. it is an automatic and my dad told me to change the filter and fluid but i was not sure if it was more like the bands or solidnoid but if anyone has more info for me it would be awesome thanks

Re: trans issue 3.8l
 

210 seems awful hot. My 1997 3.8 usually runs about 180.

Re: trans issue 3.8l
 

you getting any SES codes? could be a a VB issue. its fairly common actually. how many miles of trans? i think the code usually associated with this is 1870. its most likely the TCC PWM control valve wearing it's bore in the valvebody. you can fix this easily by removing VB and reaming new hole. however the reamer is pretty exp. i have seen rebuilt valve bodies on ebay that has the sonnax update already. if it keeps shifting harshly and you do get a ses code, i would bet this is the problem.

Re: trans issue 3.8l
 

to start does it have a trans cool and if it does, get a trans cooler that independent from the radiator cus if the engine runs at 210 then the trany fluid is hot as well, and change the fluid and filter. and while the trany is open inspect it visually and if any thing seems wrong pull the trany and do a more detailed inspection. and you engine should not run so hot. and if you have a 700r4 trany id say just swap it for a better trany.

Re: trans issue 3.8l
 

no it doesn't haven't a trans cooler and no its not throwing any codes it just slams into second. i notice it more after longer drives, like after running for an hour it will start acting up. could it be a shift sensor? o and it has 135,000 on the motor and trans