Good morning,
I have some (hopefully) simple transmission questions. 2003 GMC Safari AWD. If it helps guide the discussion: quality of cost please.
1) My van has started to pause for a few seconds before going into gear when I put it in reverse or go from reverse to drive. If I wait the few seconds, its smooth. But if I put it in reverse or drive and hit the gas like normal (because that's what I've done my whole life), it'll pound into the gear, for lack of a better way to say it. Otherwise, it shifts smoothly while driving. Thoughts?
2) The van has 120k miles on it. I don't know if the transmission fluid has ever been changed. I have to bring it to a mechanic to have it done. I have learned the hard way that many mechanics don't understand these vans, and the best way to get things done properly is to get the right answer (here) and tell them what I would like done. With that said, I want to have the transmission fluid changed. I know to avoid the word "flushed" at all costs! However, is there a recommended transmission fluid? Please confirm that I should also get the filter and gasket changed. Is there anything else that should be done/investigated while they're doing it?
3) I'd like to get a transmission cooler for light towing (motorcycle and trailer = 1000-2000#). Is there one you'd recommend?
Any other transmission advice/preventative maintenance would be greatly appreciated.
Tad
I have some (hopefully) simple transmission questions. 2003 GMC Safari AWD. If it helps guide the discussion: quality of cost please.
1) My van has started to pause for a few seconds before going into gear when I put it in reverse or go from reverse to drive. If I wait the few seconds, its smooth. But if I put it in reverse or drive and hit the gas like normal (because that's what I've done my whole life), it'll pound into the gear, for lack of a better way to say it. Otherwise, it shifts smoothly while driving. Thoughts?
2) The van has 120k miles on it. I don't know if the transmission fluid has ever been changed. I have to bring it to a mechanic to have it done. I have learned the hard way that many mechanics don't understand these vans, and the best way to get things done properly is to get the right answer (here) and tell them what I would like done. With that said, I want to have the transmission fluid changed. I know to avoid the word "flushed" at all costs! However, is there a recommended transmission fluid? Please confirm that I should also get the filter and gasket changed. Is there anything else that should be done/investigated while they're doing it?
3) I'd like to get a transmission cooler for light towing (motorcycle and trailer = 1000-2000#). Is there one you'd recommend?
Any other transmission advice/preventative maintenance would be greatly appreciated.
Tad