Chrysler Repair: 2002 300M Cracking Sound In Tranny, loose bolt, daimler chrysler

Question
Just after shifting to 2nd (ususally 40kph) and again after shifting to 3rd (usually 60/65 kph) there is one crack sound. If you have the radio on you don't hear it but it is audible otherwise. It doesn't affect shifting up or down in any way. Just irritating. Seemed to be louder first thing in the morning when it was cold. Doesn't always make the noise at 40 but consistantly at 60. Of course the warranty ran out earlier this month!

Thanks

Answer
Hi Chad,
Such a sound is possibly described in the Chrysler shop manual as a knock or click sound and the suggestion is:
Remove torque converter dust shield and inspect for loose or cracked torque converter drive plate; inspect for contact of the starter drive with the starter ring gear.
If there is a silver lining, this sort of a problem appears to not involve the interior of the transmission so it should not have to be opened up which is very much more expensive.  It might even be a loose bolt in the connection between the drive plate and the converter. I would wonder if you can't put in a claim underwarranty on the basis of the appearance being essentially in the same month as the end of the warranty. You could try contacting the regional service rep of Daimler/Chrysler for appeal.
Good luck and please let me know what you find out.
Roland