Bad Torque Converter?

[Sully186]

So, first of all, if this has come up before, sorry...I haven't been through the several pages...

I have a 96 Ranger Supercab 4x4 4.0L w/ automatic trans.

Here's my problem: I was driving up I-95 and the drivetrain made a "thunk" noise and the engine started reving much higher for the speed I was going, then it felt as if the transmission would catch and put power to the wheels. I pulled off on the shoulder, but couldn't get rolling again. No strange noises noted at idle. Engine revs like normal in neutral, and just revs when in any gear so no power is getting to the wheels.

I am thinking bad torque converter, but the last time I have done anything related to the drivetrain was over 12 years ago. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

If there is another thread in here about this that anyone knows of, a link would be awesome!

 

[adsm08]

First check the trans fluid with the engine off and note the level on the dipstick. Then start the engine and check it again. If it doesn't go down pull one of the transmission cooler lines off and start the engine. If fluid doesn't come shooting out of the line (or the cooler) one of two things has happened.

1) The converter hub stripped itself and isn't turning the pump

2) The pump died.

Check that and let us know what happens. Then we will be able to give you more things to check, but I would be preparing to take the trans out.

 

[Sully186]

Thanks for the starting point....unfortunately, it is very hard to check the trans fluid level when there is no fluid (just thought I'd throw that out there). So, after reading your reply I went out there this morning to check the fluid level. Much to my dismay, there was no fluid on the dipstick except for whatever residual was there. After that, I climbed underneath to find fluid on the drive shafts, and dripping off the trans pan. I am completely ready to pull the transmission, but I really hope I can put the original one back in...