Help! Transmission problems?

[suzydall]

I have a 2001 Tahoe LS model. V8, 2 wheel drive. Last week when I put it in reverse it just reved up and would not move. I went through the gears and after a minute it was fine. Then today I was stopped in traffic and went to turn left and it hesitated and the rear end popped before taking off. Does this mean my transmission is about to go out? I am a single mom and I really can not afford to have it fixed. Could it be anything else? Would a transmission flush help or is that a bunch of crap? Any help would be appreciated. I got lucky being able to buy this truck and I love it. I don't want to get rid of it unless I have no choice.

Thanks!
Susie

[maxwedge]

Welcome to AF. Is the trans full and the fluid not burnt, how many miles? This pop when making a turn can sometimes be the locking diff binding, tough to tell without a roadtest.

[suzydall]

123,000. I checked the fluid. It doesn't seem burnt but it is over the cross hairs. I know to much is supposed to be as bad as not enough, but how do I drain some of it? Sorry I am new at this. And if that caused it, is it to late?

Thanks,
Susie

[MT-2500]

On checking the fluid make sure you check it with engine and transmission good and warm after driving 15 -20 minutes and engine running in park gear.
If not over a 1/2 to 1 inch over cross hairs hold up on draining fluid out.

And also hold up and do not do a transmission flush.

If full of fluid you need to find a good repair shop and have it checked out.
And beware of transmission chain stores.

Good repair shop is the key.
Tips on finding a good repair shop or a good GM dealer.
Check around Ask around
Word of mouth.
Family friends coworkers neighbors business people and delivery people.
Mailmen and parcel delivery people get around and notice a lot of stuff.
Even a good parts house knows what shops are good and not good.
Chamber of commerce and better business bureau and city hall.
If you find a good referral to a repair shop go look them over and talk to them.
Look for a clean looking busy place with nice people running it.
Ask a few questions and ask about their qualifications and training.
Not all places have trained tech/mechanics.
If they do not find a place that does.
Even all dealers do not have all trained techs/mechanics.

Good luck and let us know how it goes.
MT