Alright guys, I'd like to pick your brains again if you wouldn't mind...

I just went on a trip up north and my transmission started acting up while I was there. About 5k miles ago, I replaced the filter and fluid. Before and after that, the shift between first and second was harsh, but has never really caused problems (as far as I know...). Now, Second to third is hesitating and when driving around town, it burns fluid. I've checked it and only had to top it off once, but you can smell it after parking.

So...Any ideas? Is this going to cost me an arm and two legs? Can I do it myself? (I dont have a trans jack or and trans knowledge really) Any info would really help. I'm about to get laid off from my job so money will be tiiigghhht.

Thanks in advance,
Steve

 

A slip during the 2-3 shift isn't exactly uncommon, but a few things can cause the condition. The most obscure problem is a dirty signal from the PCM when commanding the 2-3 shift. This can also happen if the PCM hasn't been modified for larger tires. I saw this pop up on the HP Tuner's forum last year. Other, deeper issues can be low line pressure (should have other problems associated), worn 3-4 clutch pack (this was the problem in my Tahoe), etc.

Nothing in the transmission should be getting hot enough to physically burn fluid. You may have a leak somewhere that is getting onto the exhaust.

 

Hmm...I'll check for a leak in the morning. I did a quick check the other day, but my truck is currently covered in mud. If it's the clutch pack, is that something I can do without dropping the trans? Thanks for the good start Swartlkk.

 

The clutch pack is inside the trans and comes out the front of the case. It can only be replaced after pulling the trans and pretty much gutting it.

Another possible location for a leak is the transfer case. Pull the fill port on the back of the t-case. If fluid pours out, the input seal on the front of the t-case is leaking, allowing trans fluid to push into the t-case. The t-case needs to be dropped to replace the input seal. If this is the case, hopefully it hasn't worked its way past the vacuum switch and into the vacuum system. That can be messy.

 

<--- that's me right now. Looks like I better save my next few paychecks. Thanks for your help.