Help! Transmission problems?

I have a 2001 Tahoe LS model. V8, 2 wheel drive. Last week when I put it in reverse it just reved up and would not move. I went through the gears and after a minute it was fine. Then today I was stopped in traffic and went to turn left and it hesitated and the rear end popped before taking off. Does this mean my transmission is about to go out? I am a single mom and I really can not afford to have it fixed. Could it be anything else? Would a transmission flush help or is that a bunch of crap? Any help would be appreciated. I got lucky being able to buy this truck and I love it. I don't want to get rid of it unless I have no choice.

Thanks!
Susie:shakehead

Welcome to AF. Is the trans full and the fluid not burnt, how many miles? This pop when making a turn can sometimes be the locking diff binding, tough to tell without a roadtest.

123,000. I checked the fluid. It doesn't seem burnt but it is over the cross hairs. I know to much is supposed to be as bad as not enough, but how do I drain some of it? Sorry I am new at this. And if that caused it, is it to late?

Thanks,
Susie

On checking the fluid make sure you check it with engine and transmission good and warm after driving 15 -20 minutes and engine running in park gear.
If not over a 1/2 to 1 inch over cross hairs hold up on draining fluid out.

And also hold up and do not do a transmission flush.

If full of fluid you need to find a good repair shop and have it checked out.
And beware of transmission chain stores.

Good repair shop is the key.
Tips on finding a good repair shop or a good GM dealer.
Check around Ask around
Word of mouth.
Family friends coworkers neighbors business people and delivery people.
Mailmen and parcel delivery people get around and notice a lot of stuff.
Even a good parts house knows what shops are good and not good.
Chamber of commerce and better business bureau and city hall.
If you find a good referral to a repair shop go look them over and talk to them.
Look for a clean looking busy place with nice people running it.
Ask a few questions and ask about their qualifications and training.
Not all places have trained tech/mechanics.
If they do not find a place that does.
Even all dealers do not have all trained techs/mechanics.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.
MT