Been digging through the forums, looking at similar tranny issues, but didn't find anything exactly like my current problem.

Details:

98 blazer, 4.3L, 4x4
108000 miles

I recently had to replace radiator due to a crack in the plastic shell. Since then (about a week ago), I've been noticing some sluggishness when shifting into reverse. Today--on the freeway, of course--felt like I had bumped it into Neutral. I finally nursed it to an exit.

Seemed to be fine if I started out from a full stop in 1st, then manually shifted into 2nd, but as soon as I tried to manually shift into 3rd or D no joy. Also, it seemed like I could get some action from 3rd if I ran it up to ~4200 RPMs, hovered back and forth (~3500 back up to 4200 RPMs), but still didn't feel like 3rd was fully engaged.

There is a smell of what I assume is burning or burnt transmission fluid, and though the dipstick shows full, it's pretty dark.

So...three questions:

1) Is this likely the result or cause of my radiator issues?
2) Am I looking at a 3-4 clutch burnout (and hence in need of rebuild or reman)?
3) Anyone want to buy a low mileage, no rust Blazer as a new piece of yard art?

Thanks guys. Your help in the past has been indispensable.

 

looking at a 3-4 clutch burnout

 

Kinda what I figured, but was hoping for possible other causes...

Related to radiator issues??

 

Don't know for su re but if the trans got hot a few times because of it, it's possible

 

If the fluid is burnt there is no saving it. The trans has to come out.