1G: Downshift issue

RadDsm · 05-07-2011, 04:47 PM

This is my first auto DSM and I don't know much about automatics. It's a 1G N/T Auto.

When coming to a stop, the shift from 2-1 is really rough. It kind of slams into gear and makes a pretty bad sound. What kinds of things can cause this?
Oh, and where is the trans dipstick?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Bud92gsx · 05-07-2011, 04:51 PM

A clunking sound..I know the sound..Everytime i'm not almost at a complete stop it shifts hard into 1st, running full line pressure tho..One time I was coming to a stop and shifted into first and chirped the tires..

RadDsm · 05-07-2011, 08:53 PM

Do you know what causes it?

RadDsm · 05-09-2011, 08:20 AM

Anyone?

I think I'm going to start with new motor mounts and change the fluid/filter in the trans.

the_mork · 05-19-2011, 11:55 AM

Motor mounts and the throttle position sensor will be your most likely culprits.

91Bomb · 05-20-2011, 06:49 PM

Make sure fluid level is good and might want to try changing fluid + filter.

All your motor mounts are probably shot so replace that tranny/moter mount because that is a common problem on these cars causing A/T's to clunk + harsh shifts.

RadDsm · 05-20-2011, 06:51 PM

I'll make sure to check those things.

I've got an OEM filter and 8 quarts of Dex3 waiting to go in. I'm still trying to find motor mounts that are good though.

Sorry for the newb question, but is there a dipstick for the tranny somewhere? I can't find it for the life of me.

Absit · 05-20-2011, 06:52 PM

Don't use Dex 3, that's the wrong fluid.
Use ATF+4.

RadDsm · 05-20-2011, 07:00 PM

Isn't ATF+4 just a Chrysler trans fluid?

Absit · 05-20-2011, 07:02 PM

Chrysler sets the spec for it if that's what you're asking?

RadDsm · 05-20-2011, 07:06 PM

I thought it was just mainly used in Chrysler transmissions.

I'll go back to the parts store and get some ATF+4.

I did a bit of googleing on it, and it seems like Dex3 is kind of old technology compared to the ATF stuff.

Absit · 05-20-2011, 07:08 PM

It's not about technology age, it's about what fluid was made for what transmissions..

Certain transmissions are built with certain things in mind, such as fluid viscosity and formula.
As such, using the wrong fluid can either cause harsh shifts, or slip, based on how you messed up.

RadDsm · 05-20-2011, 07:13 PM

Okay, sounds good.

Do you know where about the dip stick is, or a picture? It's like mine is missing or something. I can't find it and it's making me feel pretty retarded.

Absit · 05-20-2011, 09:03 PM

Sorry, no clue on a 1g.

91Bomb · 05-21-2011, 12:34 AM

It's located right on top of the tranny

KeelesKustome · 05-21-2011, 05:37 AM

The fluid check is the white cylinder with the round circle finger hole in the center of the pic. That is also where you will add your fluid. Be sure to park on level ground, and put your car in neutral while it's running and at operating temprature to check the fluid level.

From my own experience, if it's not your motor mounts causing the harsh shifts, it's electrical and will only get worse in other gears. But to me a harsh shift means you're getting great pressure and no slippage.