No overdrive

2000bonny · #1 01-30-2010, 12:08 PM

I have a 2000 bonneville SLE with 124000 on it. I have recently completely lost overdrive. All other gears work fine. The fluid level is normal and no burnt smell. Any suggestions?

Jrs3800 · #2 01-30-2010, 04:11 PM

You could possibly have a stripped 4th input.... That will kill off Overdrive...

Do you have the SES Light on or any known Trans codes stored in the Computer?

2000bonny · #3 02-01-2010, 11:01 AM

There are no trouble lights being displayed. Is there a way for me to check codes stored myself, without a diagnostic computer?

maxwedge · #4 02-01-2010, 01:44 PM

No, only a trans function scanner can do a full diagnosis.

2000bonny · #5 02-02-2010, 11:54 AM

I just came from the tranny shop, and they are telling me that there is whinning at about 50mph. They suggest a removal and breakdown of the tranny. They suspect the problem is in the planetary or some type of plate they were referring to. Total estimated cost of $1800. I have never been inside an auto trans, but quite mechanically inclined. Is this a type of repair I could do myself?

Jrs3800 · #6 02-02-2010, 04:33 PM

I want to be careful about how I word this I think...

Its all going to depend on how mechanically inclined you are...

First I will bet $$ they they are not right about your true issue... I believe that it has more to do with he 4th Input and that may be taking out the torque converter with Bits O Metal trash... a lot of guys get some whining with this, and the first thing to go is 4th gear as the 4th splines are and will be stripped... This I do believe is the main mode of failure for you..

I will give you a few examples from a 4T60E, your 4T65E will be a bit different, not a whole lot but a little none the less..

This is the 4th input Look close at the teeth..

When you have the trans apart you will replaced the 4th input hub shaft with a hardened unit...

This is some of the mess of parts I had when I was doing my rebuild..

I did this rebuild in June of 08, I have beat this trans to no end... The swapped the motor attached to it for something more powerful... The trans is still taking it.. I guess I did ok on this one.. We are still learning how to rebuild these, its no perfect science...

There are certain tools you should have to help you replace certain seals and O rings.... For most of the build general tools should do ok.. I did mine in a very back yard manner... Worked out ok..

You will need

New Torque Converter
New Hardened 4th Input Hub Shaft
New PCS( Pressure Control Solenoid, some call it EPC or Electronic Pressure Control )
Trans Go 4T65E shift Improver Correction Kit
Possibly New Shift Solenoids

There are rebuild kits on Ebay that have all of the Bands and Borg Warner Clutches with most all of the parts you will need for a decent rebuild..

Even doing this yourself expect to spend $500-$700 in parts alone..

I don't generally recommend people do this rebuild on their own, but if you feel pretty mechanically incline you may be able to tackle this..

Just remember get that ATSG 4T65E Manual... And when you do your disassembly keep everything in perfect order and orientation this will make assembly( or correct assembly ) easier..

If there are any other questions feel free to ask..

2000bonny · #7 02-06-2010, 12:37 PM

Thank you for the helpful info. I am orderring the parts and plan to do these repairs next weekend. I was told this was a very common problem. The hardened shaft should eliminate future trouble with this.

Jrs3800 · #8 02-06-2010, 01:42 PM

Let us know how everything goes..

2000bonny · #9 02-08-2010, 01:00 PM

Is there a later version of this tranny that contains the hardened shaft that will work in my car?
I am asking because I have found replacements at the same cost as doing the repairs. I just don't know if they will bolt up and respond to the computer.

Jrs3800 · #10 02-10-2010, 05:46 AM

2003 is a mixed year of sorts, somewhere along the line they got the hardened shaft... I am pretty sure my 03 has this... But there is a difference.. Somewhere along the line the way the trans is controlled by the PCM changed... so I really don't know what to tell you there..

I think your best bet is to look for an 00-02 Trans... If you get one, make sure you replace the PCS( Pressure Control Solenoid ) before you install the trans...

2000bonny · #11 02-12-2010, 09:35 AM

I opted to go the route of replacing the shaft in my original. I am also going to install the trans go shift kit.
Are there any recommended specialty tools that I will need to do these repairs?
I am going to start this on Saturday morning, and hopefully be pulling out of my garage no later than Monday afternoon.

2000bonny · #12 02-12-2010, 11:40 AM

I am mainly asking due to the fact that this is my only vehicle. Once I have it apart, I am stuck.

maxwedge · #13 02-12-2010, 05:19 PM

Check the info at atsg.com, there are several special tools needed here.

2000bonny · #14 02-13-2010, 06:21 PM

I have dropped the front frame assy, and removed the torque converter bolts. I removed 4 bolts that mount the tranny from the left side. I started to pry in the front and it is seperating in the front but not the rear. I was told there is a hidden bolt that is driven in from the right side. I have looked and felt from every angle and cannot locate this mysterious bolt. Could you give me some detailed assistance on how to find this critter?

2000bonny · #15 02-15-2010, 08:38 PM

I have completed the task of replacing the fourth hub shaft. It was beyond stripped. It was worn completely smooth. I also installed the trans go shift kit. I took it out a little while ago for a test spin, and mucho bueno. This thing shifts like a dream now. Thank you guys for all of your help. My total set back was $268 for a complete rebuild gasket set, including new bands and clutch disks, a new hardened 4th hub shaft, a manual, 3 gallons of fluid, and the trans go shift kit, oh yeah, and my entire weekend. Here are a few pictures I took part way through the process.

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