Tranny Problem... I think

Well I recently picked up a 1996 plymouth voyager for parts for my own van, but it is in way better shape than mine. One problem.... I'm guessing Tranny problems!
It idles perfect in park and N ..... put it in reverse, runs smooth...... but as soon as I put in any of the drives it studders and then stalls the engine?

Help please!

Torque converter?

Is there anything else I could check before, changing the converter isn't exactly the nicest thing to do, lol. Someone at my work also suggested to get the filter changed and the fluid flushed?

My TC suggestion was just a stab at it based on the limited posts on the subject. I was expecting someone to jump on it and give it a yea or nea but, wasn't to be. Transmission problems aren't something I claim to have much knowledge on.

I agree, a fluid and filter change would be a good first step. There's plenty of debate over whether a flush would do more harm than good. I'd try a change first. Use only ATF-3 or 4 fluid. That would also give you a chance to inspect for any metal debrie in the pan. If you want to get all the fluid out you could try the old fill/run/drain cycle or pump the fluid out the cooler lines. If you see much more than the metal grit on the magnets you potentially have major damage. Time for the pros to look at it then.

You've checked the fluid level right? It sounds mechanical but just incase, you could try disconnecting the battery a few minutes to reboot the tranny computer (TCM). Are you seeing a service engine light? Might try the key cycle trick and check for error codes.

thanks for the info, I probably won't get a chance to work on it for a few more weeks but I will let everyone know what the end result was.