The fact that the trans will go into tird gear akfter lifting off the throttle tells me that the linkage between the transmision and the throttle is not adjusted correctly. Most likely, there is too much slack. Shorten that threaded rod just before the throttle linkag so the throttle opens earlier, (pedal higher). With the pedal pushed all the way down, that spring should be almost completely compressed. Proper operation is the throttle opens fully, then continuing to push the pedal will put the the trans in down shift mode.

Dennis

----- Original Message -----
From: Mark Erb <kasdtech@MAC.COM>
Date: Thursday, February 23, 2006 9:07 pm
Subject: AT Problem

> 1988 Westfalia with 95,000 miles, AT fluid changed 25,000 miles ago.
> AT fluid is at the proper level. No AT fluid in the coolant. The
> problem that has cropped up is the transmission sometimes does not
> want to shift into 3rd gear and will wind out until I let off the gas
> for a bit then it will slip into 3rd. The reverse gear will sometimes
> not engage right away then will go into reverse with a big clunk.
> These problems don't always occur but will happen even with a hot and
> cold engine. Anyone else have this problem? Thoughts? A solution
> perhaps? I have easy access to transmission shops (AAMCO, Cottman,
> even a shop that does german transaxles) but I wanted to at least
> have some ideas before I discuss options with a shop or try to tackle
> it myself. Thanks for any feedback. Mark
>