1989 dodge caravan

I was just curious if any one knows why the chrysler 3.0 liter v6 is so pathetic. The transmission is also acting strange. It was rebuilt about a year ago but sometimes hesitates going into reverse and when it does it shifts hard. It also shifts hard into 2nd when slowing down.

what do you mean specifically about the 3.0 being pathetic? Lack of power? Poor mileage? I used to own a Chrysler 3.0 in a '92 Dodge Spirit, great engine, has awesome get up for it; only downside I had with the 3.0 is that the timing belt broke twice on me, the second time I had to buy new cylinder heads. Other than that, it's a great engine.

The delayed shifts and the harsh engagement of the gears could be a culmination of things. First, when you had the transmission rebuilt, who did it for you? If you can, find out what kind of fluid did they put in your van. Your van is only supposed to have Mopar ATF +3 fluid, nothing else. If you don't have that recommended fluid by Chrysler, you'll have issues, similar to what you are describing now. In case you need the TSB that proves the fluid that you need, feel free to e-mail me at [email protected] and I'll gladly send it to you.