2000 Neon automatic transmission problem

[d.boyd]

I'm having a SERIOUS problem with my automatic transmission. For some reason, it will not reverse. If I shift into reverse, it sticks as if it's in park or neutral, and when shifted into neutral, the car acts as if it's in 1st gear. Park, Drive, 2, and 1 all act normal. It's just the reverse and neutral gears that are all screwy. If anyone knows what's wrong or how to fix it, PLEASE HELP!

[das2123]

The bands need to be readjusted. Pick up a Haynes manual or Chilton's for instructions, I don't know if they are the same as the 95-99 neons adjustment. Also check your fluid level.

[swede1]

Originally Posted by d.boyd

I'm having a SERIOUS problem with my automatic transmission. For some reason, it will not reverse. If I shift into reverse, it sticks as if it's in park or neutral, and when shifted into neutral, the car acts as if it's in 1st gear. Park, Drive, 2, and 1 all act normal. It's just the reverse and neutral gears that are all screwy. If anyone knows what's wrong or how to fix it, PLEASE HELP!

Hey,
I am sure you have the old style 31th(A413) 3-speed.
From what you are describing, it seems like one of the clutch packs are welded together not allowing it to let go. It is probably the input cluthes(rear cluth assy.)
This condition will allow normal operation in 1-2 but in neutral it will pull like it is in drive and in reverse in will lock the trans up, applying both the reverse band and a forward clutch.
It could be a valve body issue but very unlikely.
At this point all you can do is a complete overhaul, sorry.
Swede1

[swede1]

Originally Posted by das2123

The bands need to be readjusted. Pick up a Haynes manual or Chilton's for instructions, I don't know if they are the same as the 95-99 neons adjustment. Also check your fluid level.

Hey,
Band adjustment on the A413 will not solve the problem.
The reverse band, if it is to loose will either make a late/harsh engagement into reverse (rev up and slam into gear) or not engage reverse at all if it is severly loose or not functioning at all.
The kick down band is only holding the drum to force the planetary gears to over run, giving you a higher gear ratio(2nd gear). If it is to loose all you will have is a late/slipping sensation when shifting into 2nd or no 2nd at all if it is severly loose or not functioning at all.
It is much more likely that a clutch pack is welded together.
Swede1

[das2123]

Hey, it worked for my neon! Besides it would be cheaper to replace the tranny that overhaul it.

[FemaleRacer]

Originally Posted by das2123

Hey, it worked for my neon! Besides it would be cheaper to replace the tranny that overhaul it.

I've been looking at pricing a tranny overhaul---needed very soon--and I've been told the same thing by several people. I just assumed it was a sales pitch Is the Neon stock tranny that bad/cheap? Why is it better to replace it in a neon vs. getting in overhauled? Just curious.

[swede1]

Originally Posted by FemaleRacer

I've been looking at pricing a tranny overhaul---needed very soon--and I've been told the same thing by several people. I just assumed it was a sales pitch Is the Neon stock tranny that bad/cheap? Why is it better to replace it in a neon vs. getting in overhauled? Just curious.

Hey,
Dodge has an excellent remanufacturing program and if I remember correctly the 31TH comes with a 3 year/36K mile warranty. Hard to beat.
Also, most rebuilds will only replace the 'soft parts' (clutches, seals, gaskets) which means that other 'hard parts' (gears, bearings, shafts, bushings) may have 50 miles left or 50K miles left before they cause problems. No trans rebuilder can predict just by a visual inspection what else needs to be replaced. The A413 goes way back in the Dodge lineup, including some very potent turbo cars in the -80's and -90's , so the trans is not bad at all. And since it is not electronically controlled(besides T/C lock-up), shifts can be modified(valve body mods or different gov weights). I am a diehard Dodge guy, haha. I recomend a reman 31TH with the warranty.

Okay later, Swede1

[FemaleRacer]

Originally Posted by swede1

Hey,
Dodge has an excellent remanufacturing program and if I remember correctly the 31TH comes with a 3 year/36K mile warranty. Hard to beat.
Also, most rebuilds will only replace the 'soft parts' (clutches, seals, gaskets) which means that other 'hard parts' (gears, bearings, shafts, bushings) may have 50 miles left or 50K miles left before they cause problems. No trans rebuilder can predict just by a visual inspection what else needs to be replaced. The A413 goes way back in the Dodge lineup, including some very potent turbo cars in the -80's and -90's , so the trans is not bad at all. And since it is not electronically controlled(besides T/C lock-up), shifts can be modified(valve body mods or different gov weights). I am a diehard Dodge guy, haha. I recomend a reman 31TH with the warranty.

Okay later, Swede1

thanks for the suggestion

[das2123]

The stock neon ATX tranny on the 95-2000 neons are pretty much bulletproof and cheap. It's the lack of understanding of the tranny and maintenance that messes them up. Dodge doesn't rebuild the trannies and sends them out to be serviced and thus the problems with rebuilt trannies.