[Payasos]

Dudes,

I noticed since yesterday that 1st gear isn't shifting till about 4000 RPM, I thought this was just while the AC was on, cuz I didnt notice it when driving with the windows open.

Well today, it makes no difference if I have the AC on or not, 1st gear doesnt shift to 2nd till 4000RPM. If I back off the gas and it drops down to close to idle, it'll also drop to 2nd, then I can gas it again.

Any ideas?? Am I looking at a whole tranny rebuild ??


It's a 97 GL - Vulcan I bought used with 107K miles and I'm unsure of the maintenance history.


Thanks,
Drew (Taurus Newbie)

 

[Guest]

Is the check engine light on, or has it gone on recently? If so, getting the codes would help greatly.

If not, it sounds like either a Vehicle Speed Sensor problem, or the dreaded 1-2 piston problem. It's a common problem with these cars, and there is an upgraded part to replace the piston.

 

[sundarpn]

so is that 1-2 piston thing a tranny rebuild?

 

[jinhopark]

Check tranny fluid level, or better yet just replace the fluid/filter. Not that it will solve your problem (although remotely it may) but it's a good idea, especially if the maintenance is questionable.

 

[Darnell]

My wifes sable had a similar problem, it was hanging in first gear too long, and it constantly jump in and out of overdrive (or not go in to overdrive at all).

It ended up being the "transmission range sensor"(aka neutral safety switch), which is located on top of the transaxle where the shifter cable connects. I was able to get a new switch at autozone for $25.

 

[Payasos]

UPDATE:

The 1st 15 minutes of driving or so seem to be normal. 1st gear shifts smoothly at 2500rpm.

After driving for a while, problem persists... shifting at 4000rpm.

If I get where I'm going & park, lets say for about 15 - 20 minutes and then start up again, shifting is back to normal.

Any ideas on this consistent/inconsistent behavior ??

THANX