Intermittent shudder... torque converter?

Hey Everyone,
I'm new to the forum and a recent owner of a Tundra. Back in May I bought a 2007 double cab with the 5.7. It has over 240000 miles but is extremely clean.
A couple months back I started noticing a "clunk" at stop lights when coming out of a dead stop before I applied the gas. Sometimes it was barely noticeable but a few times it was jarring enough to make me think I got rear ended. Not long after I started getting an intermittent shuddering, like I was going over rumble bars. Felt it noticeably in the whole truck, but would disappear when I let off the gas. My assumption was that I had a universal joint going out, but just had it checked and the u-joints and carrier bearing all appear to be okay.
So, using process of elimination, is this likely a transmission issue? Torque converter? It's a high mileage truck but the original owner had it serviced at all recommended intervals, so I'm assuming the transmission has been flushed at least once.
If it is the torque converter or transmission, how urgent a situation is this? I really don't want to spend the money to replace for a 16 year old truck with 240k miles, but also don't want to be left sitting on the side of the road with a dead transmission.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

Welcome, I'm not a mechanic nor expert but when my 2010 transmission "died" I lost reverse and above 3rd. I was able to drive to the shop to replace the transmission.

Good luck

 

Hi friends , I have the same issue when I’m driving between 35-40

 

My shudder got fixed with transmission fluid flush at the dealer. Same as you both are describing.

 

First thing, IMO, is to do a drain and fill on the transmission and assess the current status of the fluid. I would recommend WS fluid only, as other universal fluids can cause TC shutter. 4 or 5 quarts and a little internet sleuthing will outline the procedure for you.

Second, what is the current condition of the tires, rear shocks, and rear springs? If those are worn, the can contribute to the problem. The clunk can be as simple as the pinion climbing axle-wrap style from worn suspension parts.

Third, I would service the rear differential for the same reason as the transmission. Four quarts of your favorite synthetic

$39 75w-90 GL-5 Limited Slip, Ultra Long Drain 500k Miles, Manual Transmission, Gear/Differential Lubricant (1 Gallon)

75w-90 and a few drain and fill bolt gaskets and your are there. Siimplest service on the truck. But look for chunks or debris to inform you of the rear differential condition.

 

Thank you guys

 

As already mention. I would at least check the fluid level first. And probably do a drain and fill. See how it acts after that.

 

I did flush the transmission fluid last year at the Toyota dealer , but I will going to check the level , thank you

 

The 2007 and 2008 Tundras (I think just the 5.7) had a factory recall for the torque converter. It would shutter when the clutch would lock and unlock. Try to pay attention to when it's happening. The clutch kicks in when light on the throttle and releases when you step on the throttle or start going up a hill.