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Dodge Dakota Auto Tranny Problems
hd_lowrider
Member Posts: 1
I have a 1997 Dodge Dakota Sport 4x4 Extended Cab
with the small V8 and auto transmission with only
14k miles on it. In the last 2,000 miles the local
Dodge dealer has overhauled the tranny once and
then replaced it. Unfortunatly the new tranny is
having the same problem (Slipping between 1st and
2nd when warmed up). Two colleagues at work with
the same truck are going through the same
experience. Does anybody know what Dodge's problem
with transmissions are? I understand Neons and
Mini-vans like to eat trannies also.
with the small V8 and auto transmission with only
14k miles on it. In the last 2,000 miles the local
Dodge dealer has overhauled the tranny once and
then replaced it. Unfortunatly the new tranny is
having the same problem (Slipping between 1st and
2nd when warmed up). Two colleagues at work with
the same truck are going through the same
experience. Does anybody know what Dodge's problem
with transmissions are? I understand Neons and
Mini-vans like to eat trannies also.
1
Comments
Called the A-727, it is put in all chrysler and dodge trucks, including the ones with the monster cummins engine. Makes sense, doesn't it?
Called the A-727, it is put in all chrysler and dodge trucks, including the ones with the monster cummins engine. Makes sense, doesn't it?
You are wrong about the trannies. My 98 Ram1500 has a 46RE auto tranny The 98 and 99 have this tranny. I agree that the older tranny (A-727) did have some problems. My tranny is fine at 15,000 miles. I also tow a boat once a week.
Rich
I also have a 97 Dak with the 318 and 4 speed, I beat the crap out of it and have had no problems with anything in it.
One more thing, if you think a Ford or GM would be any better, check out their reps for automatic transmissions. They are always in the shop. Fords are notorious for "morning sickness" and GM, well, I have yet to see a GM that lasts period.
Getting back to the original point, try a different dealer, find one that will actually try to fix things rather than just go through the motions.
The 46RE is now used in all Chrysler rwd vehicles.
It is mechanically identical to the old A-727, the only difference is that it is electronically controlled by the VCM. You're also right about Chevy trannies- they are just as bad. I own a '97 S-10 SS with the 4L60E auto which, by the way is the same scneario as the dodge- trans used to be called the 700R4, but is now electronically conrolled and called the 4L60E; it literally exploded while I was driving. Pan fell off while doing 85 on I-75 in Tampa, Fl. The rest is history. Dealer fixed under warranty- cost Chevy $2800. I can't say anything about Fords, I've never owned one.
If I were you I would wait for the 2000 dakotas. they are putting the jeep's 4.7L V8 in it. The tranny was designed along with the engine, so there are no problems. It will get better gas mileage and has more hp and torque. I wanted to order one but now I think i am going to get the ram.
to use and pull a 5000 lb boat. After reading these reveiws and comments about the tranny, I wonder if it is worth the investment. I know the horror stories I read here but the reviews don't support these horror stories...what about the Dakotas that are still running fine...should i pass on the Dakota???
Power & torque could easily be a bad suprise in the hands of an amateur or unaware driver. But a hell of a lot of fun to drive in able hands!
Because at the time - you could'nt get a Dodge CC Full size - I owned two Ford F350 Crew Cabs (used to tow my Dodge drag cars ), first was an 89 Diesel Dually Automatic, second was 94 Turbo diesel automatic...both had a dictionary of expensive problems not covered by warranty. Unless Volvo starts building 'em - I will NEVER own a Ford truck again.
Every Dodge I have ever owned has been awesome - so I am having a hard time getting "turned-off" due to some folks less than favorable experiences. These days, cars are like houses or almost any thing you can think of - if you get one good to begin with, you'll have a good one, if it's a lemon to start with - that's what you have. Problem is, you don't know which you've got till after you buy. Any thoughts on the R/T Dakota will be much appreciated. Sincerest thanks!
In response to various issues raised here:
Auto trannys - yes they have had problems, yes so does everyone elses. Dodge's problem is that their trannys seem to fail somewhat more quickly and / or dramatically. The new V8 from Jeep brings the new Jeep tranny and DaimlerChrysler has set up a specialist team to address the transmission issues - they are due to come up with their first report this month. The team is headed by the Senior VP in charge of powertrains - they are taking this seriously. The decision has already been taken to build a brand new auto box for the redesigned Ram - that is new from the ground up, not based on anything currently available.
4 cylinder engines - forget it they aren't available in 2000.
Dakota R/T. Great truck, but not if you want to tow. Dodge made a major error with tow capacities. They claimed 6,000 pounds for 98 & 99 R/Ts, true figure is 2,000 pounds.
Just my thoughts for what its worth.
DoubleD, far as I understand it there are no major changes for the stick shift in 2000. I am sure some tweaks were necessary to strap it onto the new motor, but my understanding is it is essentially the same box - if mine ever turns up I'll let you know.
When the overdrive kicks in it makes a loud clapping noise. Has anybody ever heard this before. It shifts into overdrive fine, just w/the noise attached.
Thanks, Rich.
my opinion is that everyone elses auto transmissions DO NOT have problems.
Try a toyota or a nissan
RP
AUTOMATIC TRANS ANY INFO IT HAS 17000 MILES
HE WANTS 10,900
(By the way, if anyone's interested, it's for sale ... see www.cowspot.com for details)
transmissions. My Ram Charger just died due to its
3rd transmission failure. The first one went out
while the truck was still under warranty. The
second time, it cost nearly 2K to fix it and it
lasted for about 20K miles. The third time I
decided it was down for the count. As much as I hate
to agree with the suggestion that Dodge's auto
transmissions are inherently defective, my own
experience is that it's true.
I'm looking at Toyotas now. They cost too
much but they don't break like most American cars.
I had a Toyota years ago, drove it places I
wouldn't drive a tank, and it still ran like a champ until an elderly lady hit me head on and totaled it.
Anyone know about the new 4.7Liter. I'm thinking real hard about buying one. I figure I should get rid of the old truck while I can still get a few grand on trade in.
problems....I have a '93 3.9 4x4 ext. cab (85,000 miles)and have never had an once of problems with the trans. It does, however, make a
clunk when it goes from 2nd to 3rd. It's made this noise for the past 15,000 miles.
You all make me think about dumping this great,
loyal truck before it gets into some big$$$.
This truck has been the most dependable thing
I have ever owned. Should I sink or swim with this truck????? Help
The 4.7L motor is a good running motor but it's to early to really give a good report on it yet. Starts everytime and runs hard off the line if I punch it a little. I like it.
Mck3 I'm not sure if this is a family type truck. Unfortunately they don't have a 3rd door and room in the back of the cab isn't the roomiest. Only thing I can think of is to add running boards or nerf bars for ease of getting in and out of a 4x4.
Jim