95 Voyager JUMP & JERK

[fantasticvoyage]

A few weeks ago I noticed slight jerking between 40 - 50 mph. I had a tune up - plugs, wires, distrib, pcv. It still does it. 2 mechanics said they can't hook it up to a computer tester beacause my dash signals haven't come on (?). They're scratching their heads saying, Fuel pump, EGR, maybe Throttle Sensor. It feels like a transmission problem but it's only between 40 and 50 mph and I ruled out transmission because today I slowed down to turn into my driveway and it stalled but started with no problem. Always starts fine. The jerking is not abrupt but very noticible as if you were tapping your foot on the gas pedal. ANY IDEAS?? Thanks.

[GTP Dad]

I think your original assessment was correct. Transmission problem! Based on your description it sounds like you have a Torque convertor lock-up solenoid going bad. They will cause a jerk between 45 and 50 mph and will cause the vehicle to stall if it doesn't unlock properly. Take to a tranny shop and have them scan the car with a trans capable scanner. They should be able to tell in a couple of minutes if the transmission has a problem.

[fantasticvoyage]

Thanks for the input!!
I forgot to mention that my van is a 3 speed, no overdrive. Does my van have a torque converter lock up solenoid?

[GTP Dad]

Yes, most of the modern transmissions have them for gas mileage purposes.