V10 - RPM Loss in 3rd gear between 2000 and 3000

[webigon]

Here the issue: I have a 2000 F350 V10 SD CC LB. I proceed under normal acceleration from a stop all the way to 4th gear. When I am in 3rd gear between 2500rpm and 3000 rpm all of a sudden the RPM's drop by about 500. I can visually see the 500rpm drop on the gauge and I can sort of feel the drop. This problem can be reproduced every time. Anyone else out there experience this problem? I also want to add that the only thing that has been chnaged on my truck is the dealer switched out the old "y" pipe with the new one to fix the exhaust flutter. I am not sure if the RPM loss was there before the fix. Please help and share your thoughts and experience!

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2000 F350 Lariat, V10, Super Duty, Crew Cab, Long Bed, 172" WB, 4 Spd Auto, 4.30 Axle.

[wldwilliam]

Even though its already been said,...yes, this is normal and actually a "positive" feature. It helps with mileage and transmission life.

[NoMo]

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by webigon:
OK, I will see what happens. Also, even when I step on it like mad I see and feel the RPM drop...<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Correct me if I'm wrong, but, given the above, shouldn't the TC unlock- causing RPMs to increase- leading into a downshift?

[wldwilliam]

It sounds to me like what you're seeing and feeling is the torque converter locking up.

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Bill McCall '01 F250 XLT 4x4 Crew Cab Short Box V10 Auto 4.30ls SRW

[webigon]

Hmmm, so... is this "torque converter lock-up" normal? Thanks for the reply bud!

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2000 F350 Lariat, V10, Super Duty, Crew Cab, Long Bed, 172" WB, 4 Spd Auto, 4.30 Axle.

[summitx]

webigon,

I think it is normal. Try to run your truck up to about 35 so it stays in second or third. You should see the RPM drop in ANY gear once your speed has stabilized. The locking TQ converter is actually a feature that allows for slightly better mileage!

As far as your noisy power steering, what is the temp outside when you hear it? We had 20 below here for a week and when I first started the truck, it squealed like a stuck piggy for a minute, until the P/S warmed up. Also, have you checked you fluid level? If it's even a little low, it could make it noisy.

[webigon]

OK, I will see what happens. Also, even when I step on it like mad I see and feel the RPM drop.

From the sounds of where you live I would hate to tell you that I live in Southern California I think it was 80 degrees yesterday. I can here the power steering at any temperature.

Thanks for the replies!

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2000 F350 Lariat, V10, Super Duty, Crew Cab, Long Bed, 172" WB, 4 Spd Auto, 4.30 Axle.