Re: ITS ALIVE!!!

Posted by HH56 On 2013/10/30 11:30:49

Since you have High and Reverse, I doubt it is a fluid level issue. Unfortunately, low is not one of the easy pressure tests to see if it is a hydraulic issue. It only goes into low when you select low and not at all when in high range. In other words, it does not shift automatically Low to High. If it doesn't go into low at all, you can check the linkage and manual valve adjustments without too much trouble. The indicator being slightly off is not in itself a sure sign the adjustment is out of spec. Believe the last published adjustment procedure for that trans was in a Stude bulletinhttps://www.packardinfo.com/xoops/html/downloads/SC/SB-340.pdf It lists actual dimensions for a couple of areas instead of needing special tools and gauges.

Low is the forward range that has a band tightened around the planetary when selected. Without tearing into the trans, I would do the band adjustment as a first step. Packard made a change in bands to help the issue but before that change, there is a strut that could fall out if bands were excessively worn. If it appears to adjust properly then the strut is probably OK. If you can't get the 20ft/lb torque on the adjusting screw without turning the screw in much farther than it's present position, then the strut or an excessively worn band would be something to look at.

Hydraulic issues could be a shift valve sticking, a stuck piston or a rubber seal letting pressure bleed off. If cause is hydraulic you won't be able to really smartly diagnose where to start tearing apart without a pressure test. Getting a new gasket and taking the pan off and cleaning the screen would be a good idea just because it probably has never been done. You might see something obvious like a pan full of gunk indicating lots of wear or something laying in the bottom.

Hopefully Ross will be along with better suggestions.