Spyder 1998 Eclipse Spyder - Automatic Transmission issues

[Eddie Cler]

I have a 1998 Eclipse spyder GS that I purchased in a non driveable state as-is from a coworker. It will go in to drive, and will eventually shift real hard into second gear. It won't ever shift into 3rd or 4th gear, and there is no reverse. Before I replace the transmission entirely, is there something that I should look at that may be substantially easier to fix. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[DogWhistle]

Bought our '99 Spyder GS in the same condition. A local transmission shop was able to change out the clutch packs, including the OD ones, and with a hot flush fluid change, get it running again.

It actually ran and shifted well, on the stock engine setup for about 6k miles. Then the trans would slip in fourth gear, under hard acceleration. I had performance transmission shop disassemble it and inspect it. After 136k miles, several spline joints were worn, and the shifting solenoids were getting lazy. I had it completely rebuilt, with many new parts.

To answer your question, always check the fluid level first. Second, it's relatively cheap to change the fluid and filter. You can always use an ohm meter to check to be sure the solenoids are not burned out. There are a few articles on here that give you the procedure for that. If I remember correctly, they should be between 3 and 13 ohms. Lastly, you can swap out a known-good TCU to see if that helps.

Others may chime in and offer other ideas. I hope you can get it going for not too much more of an investment.

 

[Eddie Cler]

Just checked the solenoids. Long story, but I had another transmission in the garage all in pieces (many of them missing). I compared both solenoid banks and got one coil at 3.3 ohms, another at 13 ohms, and the last 2 at 20 ohms. The fluid level was good. I would say it is time for a rebuild. What did you spend getting it rebuilt? I was tempted to just see if I could find another one at a junk yard, but would prefer to have some new guts instead.

 

[DogWhistle]

First service/rebuild, including labor in and out, two new drive axles, and a motor mount, $1600. Second major/rebuild, with all parts, $2000.

 

[Eddie Cler]

Thanks. I can pull and replace the unit. I already did the axles, cooler, and several other things the first time I swapped it out. I was lazy getting around to it, and let the 90 day warranty expire. The guys where I bought it were not interested at all in extending the warranty a few more days. So much for doing business with them....