Is my trans dead ?

[nvysion]

I have a A413 auto tranny.

When I don't use the car for a few days (which is always the case), I can't go in reverse (R) : nothing happen.
So I put the car in D and then the reverse works, but usually with some noise, perhaps because high iddle when engine it is cold.
Then I have no problem using the reverse, only the first time.

The other problem I have is that when the car is on D position and I accelerate (very soft), the engine speeds up but not the car, like if I was in neutral position, one again this problem occurs at the beginning.

Yesterday, I had a new problem with the car which could not go in third gear.
So I stopped the car, put in neutral and then in D and that worked for a little time.

So what is wrong with my trans ?

[55trucker]

Have you checked your trans fluid level to ensure it is not low?
Low fluid = not enough pressure to engage the front clutch & properly apply the (low-reverse)rear band.

Have a look at that possibility first.

[nvysion]

Yes it seems OK

[55trucker]

Quote:

Originally Posted by nvysion Yes it seems OK

Define...*seems ok*,

is the fluid level on the dipstick at the proper marking when either *warm* or *hot*?

[GLHS 160]

I had the same problem in my old Ford Pinto .. When its cold it would not go into gear, because the seals where allowing fluid to pass and not build pressure.. I had to let the car warm up to running temp and then I could cycle it from drive to reverse and take off with no problem...Give that a try. If it still does not work, then it may be clutches, or valve body sticking...
Good luck..

[nvysion]

Thanks for your help.

Yes it was on the marking, however not sure if the trans was hot when I stopped the car to check it.
What can prevent the trans to shift and sometimes (often at the beginning) to act like if I put the car in neutral position ?

[nvysion]

I have added a trans cooler that may not help in my case.

The fluid may be not the one to use.
I changed it and put some generic one that meets dexron III, IRRC.
However I read and heard from Mercedes chrysler tech that if Mopar oil was not used it could damage the trans

[55trucker]

^ Assuming that there are no internal problems, it may be as simple as having the rear band adjusted, dexron III *shouldn't hurt it, Chrysler states that it can be used if ATF3/4 is not available, the slipping situation is not good, that's a possible indication there is a low pressure problem inside, the worst of the bunch being a worn rear clutch.

[nvysion]

Thanks
So what can I do ?
Do I have to remove the trans from the car to check if everything is good ?

[nvysion]

Cindy is selling upgraded trans but it will cost fort knock to ship one to france

[55trucker]

Given where you are, I honestly would visit a reputable trans shop & have the trans diagnosed, there's not much *you* can do if it needs a rebuild,.... what's it going to cost you, versus finding the same trans there in good condition to install into the car, or as you stated, getting a rebuild from the states.

[nvysion]

OK thanks
Nobody repair these cars here, even Mercedes (ex chrysler) doesn't even no longer service them.
I will have to find someone that can do the job but find first the new parts to rebuild it.

The other option would be to put a manual trans, I have a few, the cables and the shift pedals.
But may be other parts are necessary, I will have to star a new thread

Louis

[55trucker]

I suppose that if I were in your position, I would dump the auto trans and in goes the manual. Seeing as you already have the majority of what's needed, that's the route to go. The auto driveline will not have the *bobble strut* that the manual trans makes use of.

Best of luck.

[nvysion]

What do you mean with "The auto driveline will not have the *bobble strut* that the manual trans makes use of"
what is the bobble strut ?

This car already cost me the price of a new one !
I have another car with the same trans that I could use but for how long ?
Better to go to the manual trans, but I'm scared that some required parts will be missing while the car is in the garage.
I will not have the time to find and buy from US such parts ...

[ChargedDust]

When you changed the fluid did you also change the filter? If not, you should change the filter and fluid again, and put a magnet in the bottom of the transmission pan. I forget if there is a magnet there from the factory, but just pick one up at a local hardware store, try to get one as large as possible, but NOT thick (tall), place it in the pan at the lowest point. I've had a few (older) cars where a good fluid & filter change fixed some strange transmission behavior - but it doesn't always work.