This is posted for my son, who has a 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee, with quadra trac.
On first crank up, he puts it into reverse, and moves downhill about 30 feet to make a turn, and then goes up a long uphill driveway ( about 20 degree angle). After about 20-25 feet of going uphill, the car acts like it is in neutral, and the engine just races if he gives it more gas. He has to put the brakes on to stop it from rolling backwards. If he tries this several times, it goes up the hill real fine, and seems to drive fine all day long (I assume after it is warm). After driving 10 minutes or so, the car will go up much steeper hills, and never hesitates or loses power.
I am NOT a mechanic, but it sounds like some kind of slipping clutch (bands????) in the transmission. Does this model have "adjustable bands" , and is this a possible remedy ??
The transmission fluid is at the proper level, and we have not seen any leaks.
Any ideas of what problem may be developing here ??
Thanks for any tips !!
--James---