Do some research and figure out what 2 bolts I'm talking about. Since you're pulling the valve body anyways you'll have access to them. I'd hate to see someone have to do a job twice or have a trans rebuilt for no reason. It's been too long since I've looked it up that I cannot guide you any better then that, sorry

 

When you have the valve body off this is the view looking up at the transmission.

 

My plan was to definitely check the center support bolts

 

Thanks Mark!

 

Well nothing like reviving the dead. I am still alive and the SD that was to be replaced at 10 years is still alive and still the primary puller. As I look at the electronics and asking price of new or newer pick ups I have to believe my 03 is going to be with me a long time. Maybe never replaced. I was and am blessed to have used it as a puller and it has set idle most of the time. I just rolled over 100k and its still loafing until its vacation time. Total parts replaced under these extreme use conditions: turbo down tubes, upper and lower ball joints, sway bar end link bushings. The transmission is back to wanting to slip in reverse again. After reading the post above I will look in on those mounting bolts at the next service. I look back on purchase price in may of 03, 31k, out the door, a years wages for me then. That got me a nicely optioned xlt extended cab diesel 4x4 with fx4 package. Now something like this would be double that and no my wages have not kept pace. My truck has been in nearly every state west of the Mississippi, great lakes area, and Canadian boarder three times. My kids were raised on these annual two week trips and are now adults or nearly adults. My only regret is not buying a true 4 door as when they travel with us now they find the back seat has gotten "smaller." I am nearing retirement from teaching shop classes for the last 27 years. The thought of a new wonder tech wagon makes me feel ill at ease. Would it be the communities consensus the old girl is still up to the task of traveling the highways pulling 10k lbs of camper? Is there anything you folks would do past routine service to continue this journey. I doubt I am the only person in here that has kept a vehicle long term. That said I do view most late model stuff a a future headache that age and miles will end up costing you in the end. Is my black and silver truck to be judged in the same light or does it get a pass to do what it was designed to do. Thanks for playing along. SN

 

SN,
If you know every bit of history on the truck and you still like(love) it then I say do a little maintenance and keep it rolling. I would probably check the three bolts above the valve body as John and Mark suggested and even if that was not the issue find a reputable shop to figure it out. I'm mostly a lurker also but its fun to see people like you who have appreciated their trucks and have made a lifetime of memories with them.

Good luck with your tranny,
Bill