Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Ok, I got the power steering corrected, gas tank sealed, new fuel line and new fuel pump. The 352 engine runs fine, but when I shift the transmission into reverse, it takes 20-30 seconds before it actually gets into gear. It will backup. When I shift it to drive, it has no problem shifting right away. I haven't done anything with the transmission yet. Thinking that slowly shifting into reverse is not normal, could it just need a transmission flush and filter cleaned? Or could it be something more serious?
Thanks for any enlightenment on this issue.

See service manual for reverse band adjust,ent, NO disassembly required. pretty ez to do. Mite as well adjust low band too. See service manual.

Wouldn't hurt to check bands & do a flush, check and cleaning of the screen if it's been sitting.

Since drive works properly, I'd suspect a linkage or possibly stuck valve as more likely. While you have the pan off doing the screen check, look carefully at the pot metal lever that operates the manual valve. The threads strip and the assy can work loose on the shaft. Make sure it is tight and the small pin connecting end of lever to valve link is in good condition. The end stop is also part of that bolt assy. It needs to be tight and properly positioned so the manual valve isn't drawn past the detent & partially blocks the apply port when selecting reverse.

If the reverse piston has slammed into position a few times, there is also a pin holding one end of the band that could have broken and might be causing an issue. Ross will probably have a few more suggestions.

Agree with all of the above, and especially highlight the little tab on the shifter arm Howard mentions that serves as a stop for the reverse position to prevent overtravel. If bent or rotated out of position you can easily overtravel reverse which would make it very sluggish to engage.