gunning it

[johnsm]

I just bought a used 2000 Isuzu Rodeo automatic transmission 3.2 v6. 70 000 kilometers. I have noticed that when i step too hard on the gas pedal the whole car shakes until you let off the gas. This does not happen when I accelerate at the speed limit or just above it. The car only shakes (only in 1st gear) when I floor it. To me this sound mechanically wrong. I'm calling the independant dealer who sold me the car to find out if it is a transmission problem. I would appreciate any experienced replies or expertise on the subject.

John

[2eyefishclaw]

some ahops dont know how to check the fluid in these trannys in needs to be running in neutral if they are checking it with it in park all they are doing is letting fluid out of it. It does sound like either dirty fluid or a low fluid concern.

[surferfletch]

This is true! In the Haynes it lets you know that you top off through the overflow plug with the engine idling and at a tranny fluid temp of 90-135 degrees. No, I didn't get the special thermometer for the job! How bad, 2eye?

[surferfletch]

I just ran out to check the Haynes when I realized you said the fluid must be checked in NEUTRAL. It mentions shifting through the gears then returning to PARK to complete the topping off procedure. This is how I refilled the tranny. Do you suggest topping off with the tranny in neutral? Thanks.

[2eyefishclaw]

only in neutral with the vehicle at operating temp running should you add to top it off

[surferfletch]

Thanks. I'll check it today!

[rodeo02]

I don't understand this park or neutral thing. I've always checked ATF level with the vehicle running & at normal operating temperature (on a level surface of course) and in park. What's the different between N or P in this situation? either way the tranny pump is still pumping & all the gearing is stationary. What am I missing?
THANKS!
Joel

[johnsm]

It was a transmission fluid problem. I took it to a Mr. Lube outlet and had a broken seal on the drain plug replaced and the transmission flushed. After reading the replies here, I went back to the Mr. Lube and mentioned that they may have not preformed the flush properly. I told them that they had to top off the transmission while it was in neutral. There computer says the Isuzu has to be filled while running in park. They topped it off again while I had it in neutral and now it runs fine. The manager came out and started making a fuss saying thats the wrong way to do it. I talked to a mechanic who works on the occasional isuzu and he like the Haynes manual tops it off and test drives it. If he doesn't like it he adds more.

Ok, here is another question. I just recently had the engine oil replaced and flushed(not at the dealership) Now the check engine light has come on. Somebody I know says this happens to her mazda everytime she changes the oil and has an engine flush. Has anybody know this to be true of Isuzu's

John

[Cat Fuzz]

I was told by a very experienced tranny guy that most newer trannies should not be flushed. Just drain and replace fluid. Can't remember his reasoning though.