Best Alternative to a Used Transmission

[Flash619]

I've recently decided to fix my poor broken PT but am apprehensive about putting in a standard used transmission without any upgrades to known faulty components.

What are some good alternatives to using a used transmission? Is there a way I can upgrade to anything of better quality? It's a standard 2003 2.4L non turbo engine with an automatic transmission.

[rckstein]

A few years ago when I was inquiring at a dealership, about a transmission for my PT when it was thought that it might need some work, the information I got from the Service Manager was that they would prefer to rebuild the vehicles existing transmission, rather than getting a rebuilt one through their parts supply chain.

[_PTGT03]

Originally Posted by Flash619

I've recently decided to fix my poor broken PT but am apprehensive about putting in a standard used transmission without any upgrades to known faulty components.

What are some good alternatives to using a used transmission? Is there a way I can upgrade to anything of better quality? It's a standard 2003 2.4L non turbo engine with an automatic transmission.

Try a number of fluid-based fixes before deciding to replace the transmission. Due to the cruiser's age and low value, if you do change it, a used unit from a wreckers is the only sensible choice.

Have you tried to flush the transmission with Seafoam transtune, replaced the fluid, and add Lucas oil transmission fix ?

[Flash619]

Originally Posted by _PTGT03

Try a number of fluid-based fixes before deciding to replace the transmission. Due to the cruiser's age and low value, if you do change it, a used unit from a wreckers is the only sensible choice.

Have you tried to flush the transmission with Seafoam transtune, replaced the fluid, and add Lucas oil transmission fix ?

It's a bit beyond a fluid based fix. I have the ability to change the transmission myself so my only cost is parts.

I've already got a majority of the disassembly done and judging by the sound, and bits of metal in my trans pan, my guess is the torque converter or pump went bad. (or both).

I also plan to install a large after-market trans cooler to extend the life of the new unit.

[cruserdad1976]

I got a used Stratus Tranny out of a local pick and pull for $300 I cant remember how many miles it had but it wasn't to many on it I had a tranny shop put a new toqure convertor and do a complete flush and fill I put on a dorman tranny pan with a drain plug and its ben running good ever since and that was a bunch of miles ago

[ptcruisersteve]

The A604/41TE has had many upgrades that has corrected issues and other things over the years. They are not going to be selling a pre-problem transmission.

It is always a better idea to have yours rebuilt from a quality shop that can install a kit that is improved from the OEM, carries a warranty and if done correct will be a better than new MOPAR transmission with the recommended need to replace the pump and Torque Converter.

If you choose to consider a inexpensive rebuilt you may want to call and talk to the supplier and ask if they rebuild with the updates and also if the transmission rebuild includes a new pump and Torque Converter. You may also ask under their warranty if any labor is covered if the transmission fails.

[Flash619]

At this point given how it has a whirring grinding sound constantly, and flakes in the trans pan, I'm all but 90% sure this is a torque converter related failure.

1. It moves occasionally in every gear.
2. It will randomly disengage and not move in any gear.
3. A whirring grinding sound.
4. Codes showing a pressure drop in the trans.
5. Metallic flakes in the pan.

Seems a lot like a torque converter... I mean it would be the ultimate in inexpensive fixes if it worked. The fluid wasn't burnt at all and the extremely fine shavings you usually see from an old worn transmission are very minimal. There's just a lot of larger flakes likely from the failing clutch mechanism in the converter.

[ptcruisersteve]

What are the specific transmission codes being triggered?

[WrenchnIswhatIdo]

sorry man i had to do it....
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any transmission rebuilt by a proper tech with a warrantee should
do the job and don't cheapen out on it
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[Flash619]

Is there a reason some transmissions say compatible 07 - 10 etc... but look exactly the same as my 03 trans? Is there any incompatibility?