Keynote (96.52.2.146) - Tue Jul 8 23:34:32 2008

I have a 2002 Dodge Caravan with 94, 000 miles. My van developed a small leak on the pan gasket which went unnoticed for several days but the van continued to drive normally until I caught the low fluid level during a dipstick check. As a precaution I changed the auto transaxle fluid and filter. The fluid which I drained did not smell or appear burned and the magnet showed minimal metallic residue consistent of a transaxle of this age and mileage. I replaced the fluid with Valvoline ATF+4 instead of Mopar ATF+4 as Valvoline claims their product meets Chrysler specifications. After driving my van I now observe a rather noticeable clunk when the transaxle downshifts to low gear anywhere below 30 miles/hour. Is there an issue with Valvoline ATF+4 fluid which I am not aware of or is my transaxle showing signs of damage from the low fluid level?

Reply #1 Scott (72.39.175.44) - Sun Jan 18 13:07:43 2009

did you ever get an answer? If so can you let me know... skot@cogeco.ca

Reply #2 Steve (24.125.201.152) - Tue Feb 10 18:39:43 2009

well,

I have heard a rumor that I dont really believe but I will share. Someone told me that I should leave my minivan alone and not change the fluid and the filter in the transaxle because the small metal shavings now flowing through my fluid actually assist the worn gears on the transaxle grab. Many forums you will read, people change their fluid and immediately notice a difference in their tranny. Good luck, hope that this is not the case, just thought I would share.

One other thought would be that the solenoid pack filters are plugged and this might cause hard shifting. These solenoid packs are also notorious for leaking and that sometimes when you think your pan gasket is the issue, its really the solenoid pack.

Steve

Reply #3 Robert (74.179.173.22) - Tue Mar 31 17:35:16 2009

I am experiencing this exact problem. I have a 2002 Grand Caravan and had the transaxle fluid changed at 110, 000 "for good measure". Woe is me.

I have isolated the hard shifting or "clunk" to the overdrive gear. It doesn't do it if you drive it in 3rd. Optionally, if I "kick it into passing gear", I get the same clunk. 30 MPH is just when the overdrive drops out at normal driving loads.

Have you ever gotten an answer or learned what this is all about?

Reply #4 darrin (74.61.38.18) - Thu Apr 2 00:46:17 2009

when changing tha soleniod pack on dodge caravan, is ther any special treatment you must do for as ant adjustment

Reply #5 Crystal (71.116.2.167) - Sun Apr 19 19:58:13 2009

1997 Dodge Caravan specs say Chrysler brand ATF +2 or ATF +2, 7176

Can the ATF +3 or the ATF +4 substitute?

Reply #6 ed mclellan (142.177.235.216) - Tue Oct 13 21:55:35 2009

changed my fluid and filter with quaker state atf+4 .and now i have a clunk when it downshifts.2003 caravan.

Name:           
E-Mail:         

Optional (please add to our directory first)
Web Link:       
Link Title:     

Message: