Vibration only when torque converter locks up

[rocklaurence]

Hey Guys, a couple of weeks ago I noticed a vibration at lower speeds. However, now that I'm paying attention it seems to be related to the T/C. The vibration isnt noticable under 45 MPH but once the T/C locks up I get the vibration. Its more noticable at lower speeds but that's because the motor is lugging at 1600 RPM. Any ideas and has anyone had this issue?

 

[rocklaurence]

Ive got more information related to the problem. First, I ve checked the u-joints, drive shaft slip joint and motor mounts. Second, I checked the trans mount and mounting bolts for tightness. Lastly, I checked the T/C bolts and theyre all tight. Could the problem be the T/C bearing (is there one)?

 

[DonM]

I get alot of vibration under 45mph also. Once it shifts in overdrive it feels fine(smooth) Id thought this was just the engine, but I guess it could be the tranny/Torque converter?

I allways thought this was normal?

Two years ago, I had the tranny redone under warranty. Not sure exactly what they did though.

 

[rocklaurence]

Don, have you always had the vibration? Mine is only noticable when the T/C engages. You said that the vibration leaves once the T/C engages-true?

 

[DonM]

Yes that is true. Once the shift was complete, everything was smooth.

This has allways done this. I noticed a while back it smoother depending on how hard I press on the gas. I like to have the rpms around 2800-3000 untill i go thru all the gears.

My biggest problem is overdrive, I can feel overdrive more then any other gear?

 

[gavin]

my 97 Ex does something similar. Only dif is I have the V8, but the symptoms are similar, so the cause may also be similar.
When driving with O/D on, anywhere between 40-50, the truck will start vibrating really bad until I get it to change gears.
From the information I've gotten, it's due to the valve body not being correctly torqued down.
It's possible it's also the cause for your problems, but I dunno for sure.

 

[rocklaurence]

The trany is still under warranty but I want to make sure that its the trany before I take it in. I'm also going to check the rear end and tires for balance.

 

[DonM]

Originally posted by rocklaurence
The trany is still under warranty but I want to make sure that its the trany before I take it in. I'm also going to check the rear end and tires for balance.

RL, did you find anything out yet?

Next week I'll look into the Valve body bolts. Is "valve body" the correct part? In what general area is it located?

Thanks

 

[gavin]

Yes, valve body. You will have to remove the pan, and it's basically right there in your face.

 

[DonM]

Great thanks.

 

[rocklaurence]

I may have found the (a problem) problem. I was changing the fluid in the rear diff today and found that the Carrier is cracked. The crack runs 1/2 way around the carrie where the passenger side axle slides in. With the bad carrier it has allowed the ring gear to push back into the cover cutting it slightly. So, tomarrow Ill be buying a used axle with Stock gears and wont be 4 wheel-n for a while. However, when I do the gears I'll have an E-Locker installed.

 

[rocklaurence]

That was the problem! I installed a rear axle from a 98 Sport w/3:73 gears. It all went together and the only mods needed were to the brake lines (pass. brake hose used on the drivers side caliper and hard lines). Everything is well with no vibration.

 

[rocklaurence]

Eaton Elocker on its way

Well, after a long wait, its finally available. I have the locker ($579) and install kit on its way. The locker is less expensive than the other selectable lockers on the market and is less complicated to install. Lord willing, Ill be wheel-n by Dec!!!