98 auto tranny shifts a bit rough

Hi folks-

I've got a 98 taco 4x4 2.7L auto trans. I just took it to a mechanic for some electrical work, faulty throttle sensor. They test drove it, and told me that it's shifting badly from 1st to 2nd and will probably need a tranny rebuild.

I bought it with 70k on it, now it has 82k. It has always acted the same. Sometimes, not always, it shifts rough from 1st to 2nd. Sometimes the engine tachs high during the shift (not real high, but noticable) and then it pulls into 2nd. Sometimes it shifts a bit hard, doesn't tach high, but you can feel it hit 2nd kind of hard. Most of the time, it shifts smooth. All other gears are smooth.

So- do I have a dying tranny, or is this more or less normal for these models?

I do mostly highway driving- rarely but sometimes grinding on gravel.

I changed the fluid at 70k with synthetic. Mechanic says that fluid is a bit dirty. He wants me to get a $200 transmission flush.

What you think? I gotta shell out for a new tranny?

Is tranny flush a good idea?


JG

 

flushes are designed to get all of the fluid in trans, instead of just whats sitting in the pan, which he probably explained. most are also designed to back flush debree from the internal filters. its pretty expensive but much cheaper than a trans. but if your happy with the way it drives i would suggest simply changing the fluid more often to be on the safe side and dont worry about unless it starts to bother you.

also check the condition of your motor and trans mounts. they can cause harsh shifting aswell. just a thought. good luck!

 

Against common belief, a hard, quick shifting tranny is optimal. Most unmodified transmission do not shift like that, but rather a leisurely shift thats comfortable for most drivers and passengers. I dont think you have anything wrong...

 

I'm thinking possibly a slipping intermediate band. I would take it to transmission shop. Mechanics that don't know what they're doing will replace a lot of parts. If you take it to a specialized shop they'll prob just fix what's worn or broken instead of a complete rebuild.
Tranny flush is always a good idea.

 

thanks. I'll talk to local shops. Know a good tranny shop in San Jose?