Try doing a fluid and filter change. A clogged inlet screen will cause
these symptoms. Of course, a clogged screen is an indication of the
clutch linings failing so a future overhaul will be needed.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Rick Koller
Sent: Tuesday, July 20, 2004 1:07 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Auto tranny question

Hi all,
        I recently swapped automatic transmissions in my '91 gl, one '91
for  another. The swap was straight forward physically, although the
installing procedure is a tighter fit than I expected having also
swapped
manual trans. Anyway, all seemed to be working fine until the 3rd or 4th
time I drove the van. At this point the trans won't shift out of first
gear
for about half a mile or 5 minutes then it goes on shifting happily with
no
problems. I searched the archives on the subject and found a reference
from
Dennis Haynes to check for a clogged govenor, I checked this and it
looked
clean but I swapped in the govenor from the trans I removed to double
check
( the faulty trans had been shifting properly) still have the same
problem.
Anyone have any ideas on this? Thanks.
Rick Koller
'90 syncro westie
'91 auto box