Hi everyone!
Long time reader, first time writer. I need some help.
I have a 97 4Runner 3.4L automatic. Every time I come to a hard brake at an intersection or in traffic, if I quickly put my foot on the gas to start up again, the engine revs for a second or two before shifting somewhat hard into first. However, if I wait a second or two between brake and gas, it shifts into first smoothly. Also, if I come to a stop slowly, the hard shift is much less pronounced if not entirely gone. I checked the tranny filter as per Gadget's site. It looks pretty clean. I had my very reliable shop check it with their computer, etc. What they told me is that it is slipping. It may last a year, it may last 10 who knows. Any input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Great site. -Bruce

 

have you checked the transmission fluid level? it sounds to me as if you might have some low fluid or possibly the bands are slipping the two most common transmission woes i know of you might also check to see if your trans fluid smells burnt sometimes you can solve a slipping trans with a simple filter change and new fluid.

good luck
kerry

 

sorry i some how missed the last of your post looks like you already looked into that

 

in my experience with other (lesser) vehicles, new fluid/filter will just buy some time - once it starts to slip it will eventually need adjustment

might be better to just bite the bullet and get it looked at

 

I'm not sure exactly what can be done once a tranny starts to slip. I've had the fluid flushed by j-lube. It seems to me that no one can really fix a problem with a mechanical malfunction of a complicated transmission like this one. It either needs to be "rebuilt" or a new tranmission entirely. At $3K for a transmission "rebuild" I'm not sure whether to try to get rid of it (I've had it for 6 months) or just hope that it lasts several years until I have a high paying career and can afford the rebuild. -Bruce

 

You could try a tranny flush with the Amsoil fluid and see if that helps.

 

If it is the bands slipping, I believe the days of external band adjusments are over. I'm not even sure once inside the tranny if adjustmens are able. I believe a burned band is replaced and while in there, a rebuild kit is recomended.

 

I thought about going synthetic on the ATF but I was worried that because it is more slippery it may cause the problem to be worse. I haven't yet replaced the filter (just looked at it), mabey that is the next step? -Bruce