The Dodge Dakota has always been the right size, with the right amount of power and capability. But it has its fair share of problems, particularly in the transmission department. Issues with reverse gear are very common, for the 1996, 1997, 1998 & 1999 Dodge Dakota, fitted with the 46RE transmission. So let’s look at some of the most common problems with reverse, and see what you can do about them.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Whining, moaning or buzzing noise when shifting into reverse
According to TSB 21-08-99, which you can read by clicking here, it’s very common to have a buzzing or howling sound when you shift a cold transmission into reverse. The reason apparently has to do with a design flaw in the transmission regulator valve system, which howls as air passes over it.
The technical service bulletin goes on to say that the problem could be caused by a number of things, including:
A cracked transmission pump housing
A torn transmission pump gasket
Low transmission fluid level
A restricted transmission filter or cooler
A bad valve inside of the valve body
Other valve body problems
It’s recommended that all of those issues be checked when addressing this problem. But the recommended repair is to install a new transmission regulator valve. This is the gizmo that controls the hydraulic pressure for your 46RE transmission. So it is a pretty important part.
Harsh reverse engagement
Another common Dodge Dakota reverse problem has to do with an intermittent harsh, sort of bang when you shift into reverse. According to TSB 21-01-00, which you can read by clicking here, this issue affects the 1999 – 2000 Dodge Dakota equipped with the 46RE transmission.
According to the technical service bulletin, the issue may become more prevalent as the transmission warms up. The repair is to replace the OE steel check ball inside the valve body with a new one made from plastic. A new separator plate between the two halves of the valve body is also to be installed.
Delay or slip when shifting into reverse or drive
According to TSB 21-015-05, the 2000 – 2004 Dodge Dakota equipped with the 545RFE transmission may have a pronounced delay or slip feeling when shifting out of Park into either reverse or drive. This condition will occur when the vehicle has been parked for several hours and is cold.
The reason is apparently a poorly designed cooler return filter that allows transmission fluid to drain back out of the torque converter as the truck sits overnight. When you go to fire it up the next morning, there won’t be enough transmission fluid in the torque converter for an immediate gear engagement.
What Transmission Do I Have?
A Permanent Solution
All of these Dodge Dakota reverse problems can be very annoying and time-consuming. Not to mention, they can eat at your wallet if you have to repair them one time. But if you want to keep your truck on the road and fix all of these problems at once, you might want to consider investing in a remanufactured Dodge Dakota transmission from Street Smart Transmission. Click here to get more information about the appropriate reman transmission for your truck.
