Tranny klunk/hesitation

[jvstratman]

I recently purchased a 2000 Grand Caravan Sport w/ 54K. I changed the Tranny filter and ATF+4 fluid for good measure. Went for a 2 hour drive yesterday. Pulling into my driveway, there was a loud klunk and a serious hesitation before the tranny re-engaged. My wife said she experienced the same thing a couple days ago.


The AC was on the entire trip.
It seems to kick into passing gear alot when going up hills with criuse.
We weren't towing anything either time.

I bought this vehicle used 2 weeks ago. It has 3 mo./3000 mile warranty.
I'm taking it back, but I would like to hear some professional opinions first.

[jvstratman]

I appear to have the 4-speed 41TE fully-adaptive controlled transaxle. The vehicle is new to me. I disconnected the battery to do PM. In doing so, could the PCM and TCM lose their stored info thus having to re-learn driving habits?

Anyone out there?

[neon_rt]

I have seen others reply to simiar problems with the same transmission in other Dodges. It was suggested that after disconnecting the battery, that you do a 0-60-0 circuit 40 times. Starting with about 1/3 throttle for the first few and work your way to WOT runs. I have seen shop manuals for transmission shops that have the mechanic do 80 0-60 runs while the front tires are off on the ground, to reset the PCM after a transmission rebuild. I would say the after 40 runs 0-60 it will either get much better or it will break and you can take it back with a tow truck.