Hey guys, long time, no post. Here's the deal - I'm on my third C5, and this one is a keeper - '99 Torch red with Oak/Oak, Y2K's, etc. BUT, this thing simply LOVES to get to 4th gear as quickly as possible. It'll shift when I least want it to, and that results in losing gobs of torque. Now, I took the advice that many of you gave, and I have NOT bought a Trans-Go kit. But here are some questions:
* Are any of the other A4 owners familiar with this problem?
* Do any of you gear heads (and i say that with respect) think that this is indiciative of early signs of tranny failure? (I have an extended warranty, so it's no big deal.)
* Will constant driving in "D-3" as opposed to normal "D" harm the transimission?
* Also, I do shift from "D" down to "D3" and back again, using the tach (and my ears) as a guide...will this eventually damage the transmission?

I know that's a mouthful, but I'd really like some feedback. My other A4's were not nearly as inclined to jump to 4th gear (Overdrive) as this one seems to be. I counter it by driving in "D3" a lot, but wonder if I'm making the problem worse. I appreciate any feedback you can send to me dennis.kennedy@usaa.com I've had some serious changes in the JOB, and i don't get to screw off and log on nearly as much as I used to! Lastly, before anyone says it, I know...
SHOULDA BOUGHT AN M6 :lol: Happy Holidays. Drive fast, drive safe, drive sober.
DenMan

 

I do the same thing. I use the D3 most of the time. I expect for gears, TC and a Transgo kit to resolve this problem.

 

Two words - Power Loader! My car used to do the same thing. With the Power Loader (reprogram of ECM), you have more aggressive shift points (holds each gear longer) thus allowing you to keep the car in the powerband. It also does away with torque mgmt

good luck!


[Modified by sbkim, 1:09 PM 12/27/2002]

 

Do you have the 2.73 gear or 3.15? The 3.15 seems pepier. Power loader or other program will solve the problem. It will make the trans downshift with just a slight load. Good luck

MikeV

 

I can tell you from personal experience that the stock transmission is not suited to upshifting or downshifting manually..I toasted mine at 20K.. :eek: The torque mangement system programmed into the PCM will provide sloppy and smooth shifts because that's what GM want's to give the masses..
:yesnod: .. so Yes ,You will need a Transgo shift kit !! That will improve the transmission shifting ..crisp and sure everytime and extend the life of the transmission. If you have never driven or driven in a A4 C5 with a Transgo then you will pleasently surprised!.. I promise..:D :yesnod:
..
The first part to go in the 4L60E transmission is the 3-4 clutchpak..pure junk and certainly not manufactured for the constant upshifting or downshifting that you are giving it. I have had my trans rebuilt with bulletproof parts form this website ...www.transmissioncenter.net You can also get more information on the Transgo here http://www.txchange.com/transgo.htm the bottom line is you need to get rid of the torque management system program and follow up with the Transgo and perhaps a higer stall torque converter such as the Pro Torque 2400 or PT 2800 . Both are great street converters that will give you the feel and response your looking for. Whatever you do DO NOT Powerload your car..there are too many other options to programming your car ..Try the Diablo Predator or even Ed Wright at www.fastchip.com is a better choice..Trust me ..I've been there ...several times!!

My suggestion is to rebuild the transmission and rebuild it with some performance parts.. You will NEVER have this issue again!! It's likely the transmission will go before you change your driving habits..Just my .02:D ..But many on this forum will agree...:D

 

I thought most were. ;)

No.

No. In fact, most DTCs that send the trans into self protection mode inhibit OD.

Nope, that's what the shifter is there for. Constant ratcheting back and forth among positions is probably ill-advised.

In general, it sounds like you're unhappy about behaviors that can be addressed with programming.

 

I totally agree with vstella. Forget about Steve Cole and the PLII, there are m,ny programming options out there now with people who can actually provide customer service.

 

The Powerloader was one of the best options!

 

The problem is common with stock A4 programming.

First, Get new programing to eliminate torque management. I would recommend the Predator. The Predator provides more capability and has great support, especially if you buy it from Bfb (forum name). Do NOT get the Powerloader II from Steve Cole because he does not provide any customer support and there are long delays. Steve does not care about his customers. The programming will help alot.

Second, if you want more improvement then get 3.42 gears & an aftermarket Torque Converter (add Transgo if you can afford it & can find someone that can do the job properly). You will see a BIG improvement, especially if you currently have 2.73 gears.

 

Programming is definitely the way to go. Although my C5 is a 6 speed, my Buick's 4L60E really woke up after programming. The upshifts are much firmer without being intrusive and no problems after 180K miles! :)

 

So, am I reading this right??? The Transgo will allow you to MANUALLY shift the tranny like a 6 speed? Up & Down? Without adversely affecting the tranny? If so, this sounds like a TERRIFIC mod to the A4.

More info please.... :steering:

 

In a word...YES!! ....BUT...Find a competant and experienced transmission tech to install the Transgo..It's not a job for the weekend mechanic..very tedious and careful job..lot's of little springs and valves..Get a pro.:D

 

Vince is that right or are you able to do this because of your rebuilt transmission?