fschiola

I know that this has been discussed to death, but I'm looking for some help for a friend with their 2003, 2500 4x4 with an automatic transmission. To give you some background within the last 1000 miles all the filters, and fluids have been changed. The mileage improved to about 17 mpg for about 300 miles. It is now down to 7 mpg and with a load not over 1000# heavier my 1997, the 1997 will out pull and run away from them. The dealer checked the overflow control valve and it was within specs. They also preformed the re flash for poor mileage. I also checked for the wire rubbing by the alternator but it was fine. She told me that it does have a very hard time starting to move to the point that I'm wondering about the torque converter slipping and/or the catalytic converter being plugged.

Can anyone tell me a simple way to have her check for slipping TC? Can the dealer scan the trans for codes? How can you check for a plugged cat? Thanks for any help.

wreedCTD

i dont think 03s had cats.

Dodgezilla

If it was a Cali SO it would have a CAT.

wreedCTD

good catch dodgezilla.

fschiola

It's a Federal engine. Also it has aprox. 62,000 miles. If that eliminates the converter, how about the TQ?

fschiola

Here's an update. The ECM's been reflashed again. The truck will get 18 mpg until the first time they tow with it and it drops and stays below 10 mpg loaded or empty. Dealer says the the idle time is 60%, but I know that can't be true. They don't want to do anything else. Any suggestions? Is there been any relief for a dealer that won't do more? Any help would be great.