Opinions wanted - repair or replace truck

Johnp33 · Feb 8, 2012

You want to be sure you get a new torque converter, I never saw the advantage to a deep pan, you do want a new oil cooler, and servicing the transmission is a must, If you are working the unit change the filter and the fluid that you loose, every 15,000 miles.
The filters and fluid are cheap.
If the re-builder knows his stuff, get yours rebuilt, you do not want someone else's junk. Getting the transmission upgraded, I never recommend, they shift like a mule and break flex plates.
If you want to get a different one buy a new one. not new to you brand new.
Just a thought!

rtimgray · Feb 10, 2012

I have spoken with the transmission shop about any upgrades available. He said that yes he thought that there were upgrades available in some regards, but that if I really thought I needed this one upgraded (if it is that severe duty), I would be better off to go with a heavier duty truck/tranny. He gave the old example of if you put lipstick on a pig - you still have a pig.

I am having the transmission rebuilt - the torque converter and transmission cooler were replaced four years ago when the transmission was rebuilt. The torque converter will be replaced again with this rebuild. I will enquire about a new cooler this time as well.

I was probably not clear enough on my usage of my truck - it is pretty light. The amount of towing/pulling I do is minimal - only a few days out of the year for pretty short distances (less than 15 miles loaded). The trailers of hay only weigh 6,000-8,000 lbs.

In the end I have decided to have this truck repaired but I am also looking for another truck. I'm going to see what I can find in the way of an older truck (close the same age as my existing) and keep both for a while, then probably get rid of one or the other.

Thanks for the advice fellas.

rtimgray · Feb 23, 2012

It's been about two weeks - here's the update. After pulling the transmission to do the rebuild, the shop found what may have been the problem of the short-lived rebuild. Evidently, there was a freeze plug that had rusted through and was allowing antifreeze to leak out onto the transmission housing. He said that the coolant (which in my truck runs between 190F and 210F) had been pouring out onto the torque converter area (which should only be about 150F to 160F) and probably contributing to overheating it.

I know that I have had a pretty bad coolant leak for the better part of a year but couldn't figure out where it was coming from, and I know that the area around the transmission was usually dripping with coolant when I was underneath changing the oil. I assumed it may have been a leaky hose/gasket/seal but didn't consider the effect that it could have on the transmission.

I'm going to pick the truck up tomorrow and see how it does. I'll see if this ends up being $1500 well spent or not.

Once again, thanks for the input and advice fellas.