98 Darango 318 4x4

[426HEMI]

I know it is not a cuda or challenger but I have a shifting problem at times,  When it shifts into 3rd at times it seems to want to go to a high rpm before it shifts.

I had a problem with the speed sensors on the transmission and on the rear axle.  I have replaced both of them.  The speedo started not wanting to work and the ABS light was on.  So when I replaced the sensors the lights went out and the speedo stated working properly.

What do I need to check now?  Do I need to pull the battery cable loose to reset the computer?

Just a note sometimes it shifts good like it should.  Other times is like the throttle linkage is off on the older 727's

[Bullitt-]

The '98 V-6 Dakota I am driving now (200+K-miles) had this problem, high rpm shift 1-2 & 2-3, a few years ago real bad (130K-miles) .  I added some Lucas tranny stuff & things seemed to improve then last year I was having similar problems, worse on a left turn. I found the fluid level was low...Check your fluid warm with the shifter on N-neutral, not P-park.
 Also had problems with a 98 V-6 Ram that just had a fluid/filter change so I surmised the shop did not use the proper fluid & bought a friction modifier for Chrysler products... that solved it also.

[426HEMI]

Thanks Wade,  I will check the fluid level today and see what is going on.  Will also check on some of the other things.  Thanks Gordon

[tactransman]

If it is always fine on the 1-2 shift but hard to get to go 2-3,it is probably the lip seals in the third gear (direct) drum shrunk up or sealing ring wear on that drum. (common)

[426HEMI]

What gets me is that it shifts fine at times and then others it shifts hard so to speak.  Seems it has to do with how hard I press down on it and what the temp is.  I thought it could be wear but when it shifts fine at times made me wonder about it.  I think I will reset the computer as well and check the amount of fluid that is in it.  It does not slip just shifts hard at times.

[426HEMI]

The fluid additive works just fine for me.  The fluid level was right on.  It shifts just right now and gets better fuel mileage also.  Thanks Wade again.

[ntstlgl1970]

If it is always fine on the 1-2 shift but hard to get to go 2-3,it is probably the lip seals in the third gear (direct) drum shrunk up or sealing ring wear on that drum. (common)

My buddy's durango (same year as well) lost the seals for the direct drum with the same symptoms before it failed. If the additive works for you, that's great, just be prepared at some point it will fail.