This should make for an interesting discussion. The transmission does not
have any coast/release/glide capability in its design. If there is any
overrun potential at all it is in the torque converter.  Once the converter
goes above the stall or slip speed it should be almost locked up and the
engine should not slow down much when throttle is removed. If it does that
is a sign the converter is bad or it is not getting filled with oil.

Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
David Beierl
Sent: Saturday, November 10, 2012 9:40 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Auto trans operating test help?

Hello Volks,

I'm hoping that some of you with automatic transmissions will be willing to
make a simple test for me:  Cruising on the level in non-windy conditions at
3,000 rpm in high gear, release the throttle and note the coasting rpm.  If
you'd like to do the same at 4,000 rpm that would be interesting as well.

I have the odd feeling that coasting in third in my '89 has suddenly
developed higher rpm and more retarding effect; and I'd like both to
discover if it's true and also have ammunition for the discussion with the
people who recently rebuilt the trans for me if so.

Thanks,
David

--
David Beierl -- dbeierl@attglobal.net