I agree it sounds like you got a lemon with the tranny issue. The tranny in theses trucks are very strong. Check your ball joints, that is a weak link in these trucks, imo.

 

Welcome from New Jersey

 

Here in Missouri, there are yearly inspections on everything from ball joints, wheel bearings, tie rods ( and tie rod ends ) exhaust, etc. and it passed all that without needing one repair. My mechanic just called and told me that the tranny needed a COMPLETE rebuild. EVERY thing needed replaced! However, it only cost me just under $1200.00 so not too bad. I'll still have less in it than it's worth so I suppose I cant complain too much!