Chrysler 545RFE P0733 help needed

Joined
Aug 4, 2011
Messages
2,148
Location
Appleton, WI
I'm debating buy a 2009 Chrysler Aspen with the 5.7 Hemi and 545RFE transmission. It currently has just the P0733 code for incorrect gear ratio in 3rd gear.

The symptoms are it shifts 1-2 fine at all pedal input levels (gentle acceleration and hammer down) and I cannot detect any slippage, but when it's time to shift 2-3 it won't happen. RPMs continue to climb in 2nd and then I can feel slippage and the vehicle coasts and slows down. Same issue if I manually shift from 1 to 2 to Drive. Reverse works 100%. Fluid does not smell burnt, and it's not overly dark. No fluid/filter service history so I'm assuming that it hasn't been regularly serviced.

No other codes which I find odd, and scan tool data says requested and actual line pressures are around 130psi which is in spec.

Has anyone gone down this road with a Chrysler transmission that could point me in the right direction? The vehicle is in good shape for WI and the mileage is low for the year, plus it's got a Hemi. They just want it out of their yard and I can get it for basically scrap yard value.
 
I would guess the fluid doesn't smell burnt because they changed it. I would bet on the clutch pack like mentioned above. If the price is right, you can swap transmissions or do/get a rebuild. What is your tolerance of pain?
 
I’ve watched a view tear down videos and the rebuild process doesn’t look too bad. I’ve rebuilt engines before so I think I have the skills to take on the project.

$1k is their lowest price and I could probably take it to the junkyard and get most of that back as scrap.

Rest of the vehicle is in good shape except some rust on the front quarter panel.
 
Front differential mounting bushings are usually trash every 30k or less on that body style. Not a huge expense but if doing on the ground could be a bit of a pain (r/r independent ft diff to remove and press in bushing(s) as needed. One bolts in but 2 press in.
 
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