Additional Question?

Could low temps be a contributing factor ????

The ZJ is used for short trips ..... less than 40 MPH and two miles each way.

Might have to drive it for a few days before it can go to the shop!

 

Absolutely! Low temps are definitely a problem. The o-ring seals in the clutches have hardened over time and mileage and need to be pressurized and warmed to function properly. The way I handle this is to start the engine and shift to neutral to circulate the fluid and pressurize the system, letting it warm up for a couple of minutes before leaving the driveway. If I just jump in and go, it doesn't want to shift smoothly or completely, sometimes with a little slippage. I first noticed this when it was -5*F and it set a P1762 code. Since then, I've taken the time to warm the trans before starting down the road. It might work for you.

 

Well the Check Engine light cleared itself.

Gonna do a fluid/filter service to see what's in the pan and keep an eye on this.

 

Yes, mine did too, but now I have a torque converter clutch light on and that won't go off. If I clear it and don't use O/D for about 50 miles, I can get it to pass inspection.

IDK if Mopar uses one, but GM puts a magnet in the pan. When my Chevy 700R4 trans blew, it looked like a fuzzball.

BTW, 2 miles each way to work will not warm up your jeep enough to expel the condensation that builds up and causes sludge. I suggest a trip of at least one hour once a week will keep your engine and transmission safe from crudding up.

 

We do take some precautions ..... it runs until up to operating temp before she takes off.

Additionally there are some longer trips thrown in.

It's a 98 with almost 250K miles on it.

Bought it three years ago for $1,000.00 and to date we had to put in a water pump and a power steering pump.

Total cost less than $200 doing it myself.

Transmission though, may be enough to part it out and get another vehicle.

 

I don't know how handy you are, but I rebuilt my Chevy 700R4 myself. Long story and for another time, but it only cost me around $250 and a lot of man hours. On the other hand, my 97 ZJ 42re cost me $3000 because I had it done at a shop and it needed lots of hard parts. Another story.