BlueRidgeMark

Well, the WJ world is a different place. If this problem were with one of my XJs, I'd know what to do.

I have a sometimes slip in my trans, when pulling away from a stop. It really feels more like the torque converter has unlocked briefely, and is late getting to the party when I try to get moving. It happens only after a stop, or near stop.


I'm wondering if there's a solenoid that controls TC lockup, which might be on its way out, or is there something as simple as the cable adjustment that works miracles on the WJ?

dave1123

Unfortunately, I believe the forward clutch is slipping. If the TC clutch was not unlocking, the engine would stall when you stop. It remains unlocked until the vehicle speed is high enough to be sensed by the TCM/PCM to engage. If this is not setting a trouble code, get the line pressure checked by a trans shop or someone who knows how to.

BlueRidgeMark

I believe it IS unlocking, but not locking again as soon as it should. Hmmm. Speed sensor?

Just had it read at the dealership for air bag codes, as my light came on a while ago. They didn't mention other codes, but then, maybe they didn't look for them since they were after air bag codes. One odd note - they said they had a hard time getting the codes to show up.


If it's the forward clutch, I think I'll just have the trans rebuilt, rather than roll the dice on a used trans. Those are too much like a box of chocolates.

The good news on that is that I found a great hole-in-the-wall trans rebuilder. The guy literally works out of his garage, and stays backed up for 6 weeks solely on word of mouth. No website, no email even. Just an old-fashioned answering machine and a sterling reputation.

dave1123

Those are the best contacts to have! My mechanic has been in business for over 40 years and doesn't even have a sign on the street! It's ALL word of mouth and no answering machine. You have to call or show up to make an appointment and if he's not busy, he may be able to get you in right then. There are also times when he has cars up on both racks and in pieces! PLUS, he only charges you HIS price for parts!

97grand4.0

I have an answering machine, it;s a must have if you don’t have a secretary. Otherwise they unload on you over the phone and you end up committing to do things you wouldn’t otherwise.

Kymasabe

If it were an XJ, you'd have the bullet-proof AW4 transmission and wouldn't be having problems with it. In many ways, the XJ is a superior vehicle.

97grand4.0

In many ways, it's a completely different transmission. However, solenoids are not what I would call a problem. Now, I have both vehicles, and did HAVE to change the solenoids on the xj, it stopped shifting. But, knock wood, I will admit that that transmission is as close to flawless as it gets, besides a couple fluid changes it does work just fine at 158k. The RE, a little more hokey, but completely different. If you learn the quirks like I did it also does just fine in it's own way. I like the lower rear ratio that goes with it D35 and ripping through the gears. I also like the transfer case better than the xj, when it;s in 4W High the zj is UN stoppable in snow because of the direct 4 w. But the AW glides along much smoother on the road. You barely notice it shifting.

BlueRidgeMark

I agree, but the WJ is what I have at the moment, so fixed it needs to be!