Been around for a few years but never posted. However, now I need some help.

Just got home from a 1000 mile round trip to the beach (PA to NC). About halfway there the OD light started blinking while driving down I-95. When I stopped for fuel and pulled out the truck struggled to shift from 2 to 3 and then again from 3 to OD. The RPM's were hanging around 2k and it felt like it couldn't shift. However, it did manage to shift and we made it to the beach.

Once the truck was parked overnight it drove fine around town. Shifted perfectly through all gears.

However, on the way home, about 3 hours into the trip it started again. Same deal - almost couldn't shift into 3rd or 4th. When I got home I tried reverse and the truck felt like it was in neutral. When I revved the engine the trans (or TC?) locked up and jerked into reverse.

I let it sit overnight and drove it to work today (20 miles). Truck drives fine again. Seems like it only does it once the trans heats up.

I was going to drop the pan and see what the fluid looks like this afternoon. However, I figured I'd check with you guys first. Can anyone point me in the right direction?

 

Before any wrenching, get a transmission shop to read the codes.

 

A few maybe's as to what's going on....

1. low on fluid. Check it.
2. Something going on with the solenoid pack
3. trash in the valve body.

 

I ran out to the truck over lunch... Definitely not low on fluid. If anything it's showing a bit high. Could that be an issue?

I'll see if I can find a shop to pull codes for me. Thanks for the quick responses guys.

 

Did you warm up the trans be driving it at least 10 miles and check the fluid with the engine idling in park?

 

I checked the fluid once I got to work today. It's actually covering the entire white plastic indicator on the end of the dipstick rod. Therefore, it's definitely overfilled. Could this be my problem?

 

Could have over heated the fluid. When this happens it will blow out the front seal. Fluid will smell burnt.

~Diane

 

What front seal are you referring to? Should I be looking to change it out? Would this cause a leak or is it still contained within the transmission? I haven't noticed any leaks recently. Thanks again!

 

Yes it could. Overfilled fluid can get foamed, and then all sorts of erratic operation is possible. Drain some out and get the level right and see if that fixes it.