Triple transmission question, pop up dipstick, fluid, TC :(

NapaBavarian · **Joined:** Mon Jun 20, 2016 2:39 pm **Posts:** 129

Ran out of characters for the title, so unhappy face TC

My dipstick pops up as soon as I drive it, is this normal or a sign of something to worry about?

A month or so the transmission got angry and limped a bit, I added 2 qts fluid and it got happy again, no obvious leaks. I have only owned it for 8000 miles, it could have never been checked before or it could have a mystery hunger for fluid.

TC ... ... ... so many choices, I don't remember who does what, but it needs to get changed, between sasquach and I'd parts we have suncoast, euro with exchange, euro without exchange. (Core charge), is there a difference in the euro converters? Is there a good advantage for the extra dollars for the suncoast? What are the signs of failing converter? My jeep randomly stalls as if a manual transmission had the clutch dropped, but only when cold. It feels like the TC just locks up at idle but I hate to assume anything. End goal I'd a GDE hot tune and I have the flash programer here alreaady, I'll think about something hotter if I ever need to replace the turbo.

Final note, any recommendations on transmission rebuild kits? With around 150k if I need to pull the transmission for the TC I would strongly consider an overhaul with new clutch packs and rubber seals.

flash7210 · **Posted:** Wed Apr 05, 2017 10:11 pm

Dipstick = normal

If it were loosing fluid, you would see leaks.

TC options = suncoast, euro, or dodge ram 1500 5.7 hemi (low stall)
A few here have bought torque converters from floridatorqueconverters.com

I think most rebuild kits are the same.
This one looks pretty good http://www.monstertransmission.com/45RFE-545RFE-Mega-Monster-Transmission-Complete-Rebuild-Kit-2005-06_p_12049.html#.WOWjLlS3PMI

joe_ · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 9:19 am

NapaBavarian wrote:

My dipstick pops up as soon as I drive it, is this normal or a sign of something to worry about?

Supposedly this is because the dipsticks from the factory are a bit too long? Someone said they trimmed their dipstick down a bit and it doesn't pop out anymore. At least one person on here has rigged up something with a couple zip ties to hold it down in the dipstick tube.

NapaBavarian wrote:

What are the signs of failing converter? My jeep randomly stalls as if a manual transmission had the clutch dropped, but only when cold. It feels like the TC just locks up at idle but I hate to assume anything.

Right when you put it in gear after a cold start? This is fairly common on these, caused by a worn piston in the front pump assembly. I believe the front pump needs to be replaced in order to solve it, though a workaround is to put it in neutral for ~30 seconds after starting it and before putting it in gear. This allows the fluid to circulate and fill whatever empty passages there are within the torque converter lockup circuit.

NapaBavarian wrote:

End goal I'd a GDE hot tune and I have the flash programer here alreaady, I'll think about something hotter if I ever need to replace the turbo.

I wouldn't go with a Euro torque converter if you're bumping up the power; seen multiple people still have shudder issues with them. I would go with a Hemi converter, or if you can afford it, Suncoast.

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 9:21 am

Common Problem on Dipstick!
Simple solution, cut about 1/4 to 3/8 inch off the end of it and remark markings with a file or using some pliers, simply bend a slight lazy "Z" in the stick to make it a little shorter.
The problem is the dipstick is too long and contacts the bottom of the transmission oil pan and that makes it pop out! :roll:

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 10:57 am

If you want the best TC, the Suncoast is top rated but unfortunately the most expensive.

Have to call them to order as they no longer list them on their web page.
http://www.suncoastconverters.com

A few posters on here have reported not being real happy with the Euro after install!
Most comments on LOST about the Hemi TC have been positive.
Also some have reported good resultes with the Flordia Torque Converter:> http://www.floridatorqueconverters.com/ ... 13-35.html

These are the known torque ratings for the different TC's:
Stock Mopar OEM TC is rated for 300 ft. lbs. max (406 Nm)
Mopar Euro TC is rated for 400 ft. lbs. max (~ 542 Nm)
Hemi TC is rated for? (have not seen a rating listed)
Suncoast CRD-1ES TC is rated for 600 ft. lbs. max (813 Nm)

The lockup and stall problem right after a cold startup is a known issue caused by plungers sticking in the front pump assembly that are worn out!
If you pull tranny to replace TC, be sure and replace the front pump assembly with a new one as there are several wear items in the pump assembly that cause problems.
Does not require a complete transmission rebuild unless you are having some other issues as well!
Also many install a Transgo kit at the same time while doing the TC/front pump assembly which helps the transmission and improves shifting...makes it shift a little firmer...

:SOMBRERO:

flash7210 · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 11:34 am

I recommend this TC, but only because it specifies "low stall."
http://www.floridatorqueconverters.com/Chrysler_Torque_Converter_13-37.html
In any case, call FTC and tell them what you are looking for.

Mountainman · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 11:39 am

The transmission filter can cause the drain back and stall when cold. It
A new wix filter fixed mine. I'd get one from a local Napa not online where you might get an old stock that will be just as bad

flash7210 · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 11:45 am

Its most likely that you wont need a trans rebuild and you may not even need a new TC.
Unless you have a hot tune and are experiencing shudder then you should consider a new TC and new pump.
If it shifts normally with no slippage then a rebuild is not necessary.
Just change the fluid and filters according to the maintenance schedule.

GordnadoCRD · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 1:18 pm

Just so everyone knows, Sasquatch Parts sells Libby Suncoast TC, if you're looking at stepping up to the best.

https://shop.sasquatchparts.com/products/suncoast-torque-converter-for-jeep-liberty-2-8l-crd/

IDParts may as well, but I couldn't find it in their catalog.

69Hcode · **Posted:** Thu Apr 06, 2017 11:24 pm

I just installed a Florida Converter. It does feel like a more direct drive and the shudder is gone. I installed the valve body parts of the Trans-go kit last year. Did the other parts of the kit with the converter. Be careful with the pump cover. Mine leaked and had to pull the trans again. Less than 2 hours this time.

The friction discs still had legible part numbers on them. With 115,000 miles. I don't think it has ever been out before.

NapaBavarian · **Joined:** Mon Jun 20, 2016 2:39 pm **Posts:** 129

Thanks for all the tidbits, I'll probably go for suncoast then. I don't mind the price tag as long as it does the job. The only reason I would consider rebuild a funational transmission is as long as it is out tossing in new clutch packs and rubber seals on a 12 year old 150,000 mile transmission gives many more years of service before a rebuild, I'm not sure it is worth it but defiantly worth considering.

WWDiesel · **Posted:** Fri Apr 07, 2017 11:53 am

NapaBavarian wrote:

Thanks for all the tidbits, I'll probably go for suncoast then. I don't mind the price tag as long as it does the job. The only reason I would consider rebuild a funational transmission is as long as it is out tossing in new clutch packs and rubber seals on a 12 year old 150,000 mile transmission gives many more years of service before a rebuild, I'm not sure it is worth it but defiantly worth considering.

The Suncoast TC will definitely handle anything you can do to your VM diesel! :pepper:

Freshening up a 150k transmission is not a bad consideration but is probably not needed unless you are having shifting or other transmission related issues.
Again, just be sure and replace the front pump assembly while you got the tranny out to replace the TC; and throw in a Transgo kit for good measure! :wink:

You will be good to go for a long time doing all the above....

:SOMBRERO:

Triple transmission question, pop up dipstick, fluid, TC :(

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