[vfabricius]

I have 228k miles on my '96 and do intermittant long distance towing of antique boats for special customers. Woodies are actually lighter than fiberglass - typical load 4-5.5k max. I always haul in o/d on flats but will take it off if I determine it will start shifting up and down. I've serviced trans twice myself following guidelines here draining everything right thru cooling lines. Did this twice since purchased with 86k. Its still on original trans and noticed when hauling a wrecked '98 Jeep cherokee back home on my single axle flatbed over mostly flat terrain around Atlanta, it seemed to be downshifting a lot (actually, I think lockup t/c was unlocking and then locking back up over a 1-2 mile span, then repeating). This is puzzling since I just got finished hauling a boat back from Canada and t/c stayed locked up the whole time. Its probably time for fluid change but wonder how many more miles I can get? Shifts are still firm, doesn't seem to be slipping but at 60+ speeds the increase in RPM had me scratching - it was not coming out of o/d because I would push o.d button and rpm would increase even more. Sorry for long wind - just making sure u guys have plenty of background.

 

[Mark Kovalsky]

I've seen them go over 400k.

The converter can unlock and relock for many reasons. A bad pedal position sensor, reduced engine power, a brake light switch problem, a sensor issue, etc. Old trans fluid won't cause that.

 

[bbasso]

The original transmission in my first van had a tick over 600,000 miles before it was replaced.
I was in shock when I read all of the previous owners receipts.

 

[vfabricius]

I'm shocked at the mileage amounts as these supposedly have a bad reputation? I'm very cautious with mine never romping on it in low, coming to full stop before changing gears, etc. Thanks for the input. Will check sensors Mark mentioned if I can figure out the process.

 

[Mark Kovalsky]

Don't check the sensors, read the codes. How would you check the sensors?