My 03 with 48re has 119,000 miles with no problems. Mostly no tow, highway miles. I had the fluid changed at 95K and checked fluid levels at least 4 times since. Last week, with no warning, I placed it in drive and it felt like the brake was still on. Had to rev to over 2600 rpm to get it rolling, but then it ran normal as long as I did not have to stop again. Taking off is the only problem. It was about 40 degrees out. My local Tran shop said it was taking off in high gear. He said it must have been ran hot, but I don't think so. It WAS two quarts low, so he said change the fluid/filter. I did and drove about 1,000 miles pulling a 3K lb trailer and it was perfect again (Temps in 60s). Today, it started again, and the temp is in the 30s again. Checked the fluid and it was 1 quart low again. EVERYTHING is completely dry underneath. Where is the fluid goin? I added another quart today and it is running fine again. I feel that it could be a sensor except for the missing fluid. I am beginning to suspect my neighbor is stealing my AT fluid! Any Ideas? What makes it run perfect in warm weather and not in cold? Does this action leave a code that can be checked? Any help is appreciated.

 

Is it 4X4? If so check the fluid level in the transfer case.Maybe thats where it's going.

 

sounds like a sticky govoner sensor,some times if they stick it will start in high gear no warning lights if you keep trying to take off like that it will smoke the tranny,

 

If you feel it starting like that again, do not try to go, immediately shut off truck, turn the key 3 times (just like to check codes) then shut key off,, start truck, everything should be back to normal. As for the fluid, most likely going into the transfer case..... I think

Kevin

 

I don't know where his fluid is going, but it's not going to the Transfer Case.

That is a totally separate reservoir.

 

Are you checking the fluid with the truck in neutral and pb on??

 

Yes, always check the fluid with it in neutral and PB on. This morning, it ran perfect again at 28 degrees out. Thanks again guys. I guess I will have to get the scan tool hooked up to see any codes.