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Hi, i went for a checkup and the dodge people told me i had a harsh 4-3 downshift and a delayed engagement. they wanted me to replace the whole transmission for $3600. I was wondering what the problem was. Could i solve the problem or at least delay this problem by changing the transmission fluid and filter every year or so?  

i would start with that... i bet there is another opinion coming.. from the trans expert here...  

There is a test that is done with a scanner called CVI{clutch volume index}.This will give you an idea on the condition of the clutch packs.Underdrive,low and intermediate should be around 50 and overdrive around 100.If these check out ok i would replace the solinoid block.If you end up needing an overhaul you can reuse the solinoid block {the new one}.A fluid change every year is a good idea but if you do under 20,000 miles per year every 2 is good enough.$3600 is kind of pricey.Go to a reputable local rebuilder you will get a better deal.



PS:Im assuming if there were any codes in the computer you would have posted them.  

Ya, UD CVI out of spec, no codes, harsh 4-3 downshift and delayed engagement. mechanic rec'qed overhaul front pump and replace torque converter. Meanwhile, I was wondering if this method would not cause my transmission to deteriorate:

below 80km = 3rd gear on stick
once on highway = drive on stick
when about to shift from 4th to 3rd = neutral on stick

I used this method and not encountered any harsh downshift since this problem always during 4th to 3rd gear. Can i use this method permanently without changing anything next 3-4 years?  

"mechanic rec'qed overhaul front pump and replace torque converter."
Im not sure what this means.Did he do this work?



The only problem with driving that way {aside from being a hassle}is it will slightly lower your gas mileage.If your underdrive CVI was 60 or higher it wont be long before that trans is not drivable.  

You should be able to do an entire rebuild with Kevlar clutches for around $2000 from a local shop. Never go to a dealer for that. Good luck.