i just bought a 2003 Sierra 4wd (160K miles) today. the trans kinda slips sometimes in the 1-2 shift. other then that it seems to shift pretty firm for a stock trans. the fluid is reddish but has a blackish tint.

i have heard mixed info on how to handle this. what do you think?

 

I'd change it but doubt it will resolve the issue.

 

Add some Lucas Transmission Fix with ATF Conditioner. You will have to train some of the fluid though to match what you are going to insert.

 

+1 I agree...160K something's probably worn...or...could a cracked plastic accumulator piston cause this issue?

 

This is just what happend to me so take it for what its worth to you. My truck started to slip in 2nd then in 3rd, drove it for 6 months like this, i got sick of it and did not have the money at the time for new trans or a rebuild so i droped the pan, changed the filter and flushed the fluid at work the old fluid was alittle burnt but not to bad after the trans service my trans sliped so bad i couldent even drive it.

 

changing trans fluid with that many miles and a shift problem is scary. if it has never been changed before, doing so may get rid of what ever is in there still alowing it to drive. If it has been serviced regularly, changing the fluid prob wont correct the prob.

 

from talking to the previous owner it sounds like it had been changed once. not sure when that was though.

ive tried the lucas stuff in the past and seemed to have good luck with it being a band aid.

i know i will end up having to put a trans in this truck. just trying to prolong it.

 

i would be scared to change the fluid... it probably wil slip worse with fresh fluid...

 

Lance I would not touch it for the obvious reasons. With the mileage and not having regular services you will more than likely kill it. I would run it and when it fails make a trip out to Chicago!

 

is there a good tranny shop in chicago?

ya looks like ill be trying to go easy on it.