Reverse Is Gone

[billy]

Well I have a 2000 Chevy 2500 4wd diesel with only35,000 miles!!!

I went this morning to do a salt run, as I left the lot being loaded with 2 yds of bulk salt my truck would not go into reverse.

What surprise me is that it only has 35,000 miles, hasn't really done any major plowing until this year. Few events.

Took it to the trans shop, he said he'll have it ready for me on Monday. Total rebuilt $1,400. I was expecting to cost more.

Has anyone had the same situation with the chevy with low miles.

And also do you think the weight of 2 Yds of wet salk add more heat and tear on the trans.

What can I do to prevent this from happening again.

Appreciate info.

[urethane dino]

Be sure they will do a complete rebuild. Ask for all the old parts back, an a complete brake down of what they did. Alot of shops just replace the reverse clutches and pass it off as a rebuild. Reverse in the 4L80E is the weak link in the tranny. But it should have lasted more than 35K. You can call the 1 800 # in the owners manual and see if you are still covered under warranty.
Yes the weight of salt will add more stress to the drivetrain. In fact I would suspect that GVW wise only 1 yd would be legal.
Use 4wd low in any situation where you have to put a big load on the tranny in reverse.
I recentley needed a tranny myself so I know of your pain.
Dino

[John DiMartino]

Billy, there isnt much you can do. The 4L80E is notorious for reverse failure,even with very low mileage,it is impossible to say when its going to happen. I bought 2500lds to stay with the better for plowing 700R4 that has never let me down .Hopeful this tiem it will last longer. Going fro m drive to reverse,go as easy as you can,and coem to a full stop before shifting.

[billy]

Thanks guys for your responses.

I'm just concerned now with my 2000 dodge ram 2500 4wd 60,000 miles. With a 4:10 gear. I hoping that tranny is not next.
Still the origional trans.

I change fluid every 15,000 miles,

I haul about 2yds of bulk salt also.

Does the 4:10 gear a stronger gear more durable, I dont now much about transmissions so I appreciate your opinions.