Chrysler Repair: 1998 Concorde: engine dies when put in gear, solenoid pack, chrysler concorde

Question
Hi there.  Do you know why my 98 chrysler concorde stalls when i put it into drive?  I recently had an overheating issue (replaced thermostat).  It starts and runs in park, but once transmission is put into drive, it immediately stalls. Thanks.

Answer
Hi Kent,
I believe that may be due to the torque converter lock-up clutch in the transmission being stuck in the locked up position. It is meant to be used only above 40 mph and should have released when slowing down. I would suggest removing the valve body from the transmission and cleaning out the valve that actuates the clutch or replace the 'solenoid pack' containing that valve as a possible solution in the hope is is the hydrualic control valve for the clutch rather than the clutch itself that is 'stuck'. The clutch replacement would otherwise involve removing the entire transmission. Speak with a local independent (non-franchise) tranmission shop about my analysis to see if they agree.
Roland