QuestionI have a FWD 1991 Dodge Grand Caravan SE with a 3.3L V6 and the A604 automatic transaxle. The transmission in the van was replaced at 100,000 miles, just before we bought it.
Last week I took the vehicle to an AAA approved service center to have the transmission serviced. They called and told me that the transmission was in excellent shape and that the shuddering that we were feeling was that the motor and transmission mounts were shot.
During the service they installed an ACDelco TF242 filter and filled the trans with Valvoline maxlife Dexron III/Mercon fluid. I discussed the choice of fluid with them because of how picky the A604 is about the fluid, especially in the early 1990's. and they assurred me that the fluid would be fine in the trans.
I took the van home and replaced all three mounts.
81 miles later the transmission suffered a catastrophic failure - something inside it gave out voilently enough that it felt like the engine and transmision were dragging on the ground. I suspect that the differential has failed.
The trans has just short of 45000 miles on it now and the shop said that it was in excellent condition.
Every piece of literature that I can find says that the transmission MUST use ATF+3. Some even go so far as to say that the early 604 transmissions should not even use the ATF+4.
My question is this:
Did the shop's choice of filter and fluid contribute to or cause the transmission's failure?
AnswerHi Lester,
The closest in time to your '91 van that I have is the '93 Chrysler van/wagon service manual. It states that Mopar ATF plus (Type 7176) is recommended. Fluid of the type Dexron II is NOT RECOMMENDED. It can only be use if the recommended type is not available. If more than a small amount is used shift problem or shudder may be encountered.
The failure so close in time and distance traveled is highly suspicious.
I would verify that the model of filter was appropriate for your transmission by going to a parts store that has a AC Delco catalog, or the parts counter at a Chrysler dealer.
Then I would contact the shop that did the service and report the failure. See what their response is.
If they don't have a satisfactory resolution to offer, then you would be aided by having another trans repair shop evaluate the damaged unit (Chrysler dealer or independent (but not franchise)) for the proximate cause of failure, with the goal of obtaining a written statement of their results and conclusions. Then return to the AAA shop with that documentation in hand.
The ultimate resolution may well be a Small Claims Court so such documentation may prove worthwhile. The cost of rebuild/replacement is on the order of $2,000 which is worth seeking in such a court setting.
I don't have any other documentation on trans fluid recommendation, but the "word" in the Chrysler-owner community is clearly that Dexron is not good for the A604.
Best wishes as you pursue the truth and a just solution.
Roland
