Slipping transmission

[Swenny]

I have a 2002 Pontiac Montana with 143,000 miles on it. About a month ago the tranny started slipping between 1st and 2nd. Revs up about 800 RPMs and idles during the slip and then kicks into 2nd. Accelerating like Grandpa

Against better judgement, I'm considering dropping the pan, draining the fluid, adding some fluid, and then adding some Lucas Stop Slip to see if that will help prolong the inevitable

My thoughts are this:
1. I've heard of people who drain their fluid and then the tranny doesn't work because the metal shavings were providing enough friction. The new fluid wouldn't have the friction necessary. Anyone have any experience with that?
2. How difficult is it to remove the pan?
3. KBB puts the value of my van at $4500-$5000. Considering a tranny job is going to be about $2000 and I need new tires, about another $500 more, is trying the Stop Slip fix and selling it my best option?

 

[melsg5]

I assume you already checked the fluid level so the trani service sounds like the best thing to do including replacing the filter.

 

[brandont96]

just put a full bottle of lucas slip fluidin in, take it for a 10 mile drive then see if the issue proceed's

if it does continue u will need 1st and 2nd gear rebuilt on the transmission

 

[SV6 Hoonigan]

Slipping Tranny

I have a similar problem with my 05 montana. It is not difficult to remove the pan. What i might recommend, and what i have done, is gotten my mechanic to remove the pan, change the fluid and filter, add the lucas oil stuff, and then drill a hole in the pan and add a nut, so that you can change the fluid by yourself. I find that the lucas oil helps alot for a little while, so i find myself changing the fluid multiple times a year.(twice already this year) In regards to the cost of a new tranny, you may consider a tranny rebuild, as they are cheaper.