Hi, while climbing a slight to steep grade at speeds of aprox. 40-55 MPH it feels like driving on rough pavement. I thought it may be universal-joints at first, but not so. Anyway, I've been told a new torque converter is needed by some. And have been told by others a trans flush, then add a tube of Lubegard Dr. Tranny instant shudder fix would be well worth a try. This Yukon XL Denali is a 2002 with only 57,000 miles and my wife says its been doing this for a while now. We don't tow with it and the prior owner who sold it to us in 2004 with 29,000 miles claims to have towed only, I can't remember, but something like jet skis or bass boat, and not very often. This vehicle is in fact made for towing with tow package and 3.73 gears. I've kept an eye on the Trans. temp gauge in situations I thought that may cause it to get hotter than normal and it never seemed to have fazed it. I have not yet did a filter or trans. fluid change to this point but had planned on it soon. What do you think is my best bet in this case?? Thanks: John

Shudder can be a worn TCC Regulator Valve.

When was the last time the fluid/filter was changed? Might be a good idea to start with that.

Lubeguard may help but if the Regulator Valve is worn it may not help. Valve body need to come out to check the Regulator Valve.

//2000CAYukon

Shudder can be a worn TCC Regulator Valve.

When was the last time the fluid/filter was changed? Might be a good idea to start with that.

Lubeguard may help but if the Regulator Valve is worn it may not help. Valve body need to come out to check the Regulator Valve.

//2000CAYukon
OK, thanks for the info. As for when the fluid was changed last, I don't know if it was done prior to my ownership? But I have not yet changed it. My owners manual said 100,000 miles based on the way we drive it. I was planning on doing it pretty soon after 50,000 miles and it now has 57,000 so it is on my to do list. As for a filter, should I buy it from GM or is NAPA, Federated, etc OK to use. Thanks: John

Aftermarket is ok.

Personally, I don't like cork gaskets, so I would recommend a filter that comes with a good gasket. No sealant is needed on the gasket. Also, do not over tighten the pan bolts.

//2000CAYukon

Personally, I don't like cork gaskets, so I would recommend a filter that comes with a good gasket. No sealant is needed on the gasket. Also, do not over tighten the pan bolts.

//2000CAYukon

Good point, I believe in retrospect that 2002 GM cars/trucks used a reusable pan gasket far superior to any aftermarket unit.

Thanks for that tip, I did learn that one on my Jeep. I think my 2002 Grand Prix had that good gasket on it, but I bought it used and not sure if it came that way or if someone else put it on there. I do hope this one has it already too. Thanks for your time.

Hey The best fix for any/all your Trans (4L60E) is to have someone that knows how to install a SK 4L60E- L shift kit from Transgo www,avatarepc.com This kit not only improves the shift of the unit, but also replaces the lockup valve assy. It WILL fix your problem!!! I have rebuilt Transmissions for twenty+ years and will install this kit in all my 4L60E transmission rebuilds GOOD LUCK

Hey The best fix for any/all your Trans (4L60E) is to have someone that knows how to install a SK 4L60E- L shift kit from Transgo www,avatarepc.com This kit not only improves the shift of the unit, but also replaces the lockup valve assy. It WILL fix your problem!!! I have rebuilt Transmissions for twenty+ years and will install this kit in all my 4L60E transmission rebuilds GOOD LUCK
I think mine has the 4L65E if I remember right. It has the 6.0 engine and the AWD. I put a tube of that DR. Tranny in it and the shudder went away. I've since changed the filter and replaced the fluid that drained out of the pan with Valvoline Max Life and a bottle of Problend trans treatment. So far, so good. But if it starts to shudder again and if it stops when just slightly tapping the brake, I assume that what you are saying may work in this case?

Good point, I believe in retrospect that 2002 GM cars/trucks used a reusable pan gasket far superior to any aftermarket unit.

just re use the rubber seal. get some honda bond gasket sealer from the boat shop it's much better. the cork or paper gaskest are junk, and a new rubber seal costs a$100 bucks.