Usually, automatic clutch slippage is a sign of hydraulic failure. If
caught right away, repairs could be minimal. If the clutches and steel
plates have been cooked they will need to be replaced. I don't recall if
you did the overhaul yourself or had it done, but for it to fail in 15K
means something was not done right or a part was defective. Either a
re-used piston or seal or a new part split at a seam. I've had it happen
to me. If the trans was done by a shop, talk to them. Even though the
repair is probably out of warranty they should do something. These
automatics last for years if assemble right and not abused. They last
longer than the 4 speeds.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM] On Behalf
Of LC
Sent: Saturday, February 01, 2003 10:24 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Automatic Transmission

Denis, I think you are right on; the clutches have slipped a few times
not much though since I don't drive that much. If the clutches have been
burning up and slipping, can that prevent the transmission to not engage
at all? Or are there any signs other than slipping before the
transmission gives out for good? I don't want to spend that much money
anymore rebuilding the transmission again or is it just the clutches
that have to be replaced?
Your help is much appreciated, this way I know what to expect when I tow
it to the mechanic.

Francisco

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Dennis Haynes
Sent: Friday, January 31, 2003 11:21 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Automatic Transmission

Dirty transmission oil in 15K miles is a sign that things are going
wrong. The clutches have been slipping and are burning up. The pan and
valve body can be removed and compressed air can be used to test each
clutch assembly through the ports in the transmission. Unless you simply
lost the accumulator seal, it sounds as though the trans is coming out.

Dennis