Dodge Repair: 02 Dakota SLT 4.7L v8 automatic revs high before shifting

Question
I have been given the privilege of using a work truck to go to and from work and to run small errands during my off-time. it is a 2002 Dodge Dakota SLT quad cab with 4.7L V8 and automatic transmission, according to the VIN. the airbags have been deployed before, and i believe the truck is in fact a rebuild of the orig after it was totalled and auctioned. in the message center, the airbag light, and check engine light are on and have been since i started driving the pickup. about 2 weeks ago the ABS light and Brake light have also both appeared in the message center and are the constantly. the guage for oil pressure sits right at L or barely above. the issue i am having is a high rev with little power or speed gain before shifting upward from lower gears. the problem is most noticeable taking off from stops and at first was intermittent but is becoming increasingly common. what are some possible diagnoses, causes, and solutions? i would like to solve the problem personally since i have been almost the exclusive driver for the past month. all help and time is very much appreciated, Roland.


Dylan

Answer
Hi Dylan,
The best way to get some direction on the transmission is to do a fault code readout of the engine/transmission controller. Try the ignition switch: "on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the odometer window in the cluster to see the mileage reading be replaced by 4-digit number preceded by a P. Let me know what those numbers are and we'll go from there.
The problems with the ABS and Airbags may not be revealed this way but a plug-in code reader is the usual way to access those via the socket under the dash by the steering column. A nationwide auto parts store (e.g. Autozone) will often do that readout for free or an independent shop will do it for under $40.
Roland