You have a problem with low pressure at cold temps.  This is usually caused
by a clogged screen, bad pump, or internal leakage in the transmission.  Try
checking the screen first.  If it is clogged, that is an indication that the
clutches are shot.  Even if replacing the screen fixes the problem for now,
you will need to overhaul the Trans in the near future.  Most of the auto
Trans parts are available at a local transmission shop.  When overhauling
the Trans, I recommend replacing the torque converter as all that crap in
the screen is stuck in there also.

Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: LENBOU <LENBOU@PRODIGY.NET>
To: Vanagon@GERRY.SDSC.EDU <Vanagon@GERRY.SDSC.EDU>
Date: Tuesday, October 21, 1997 6:57 PM
Subject: Tranny won't shift when cold

>Hi boys and girls!
>
>        I'm having a problem with my 84 Vanagon (auto trans) shifting
>when it is stone cold, (IE: every morning). If I don't warm up the
>engine, and take off right away, the tranny won't shift out of 1st gear.
>I have to pull over and let it idle for about 5 mins. and then it will
>shift fine all day as long as the engine doesn't totally cool off.
>However, if I start the engine and let it warm for about 5 mins and then
>take off, it shifts just fine. I have checked the ATF and it is right up
>to the full mark. Could it be a clogging filter screen or is there some
>sort of vacume modulator on this trans. Maybe I'm way off base. Anyway,
>I sure would appreciate any advise anyone out there in Vanagonia may
>have to offer, as  it is getting colder and it seems the colder it gets,
>the longer I have to warm it up before it will shift into second gear.
>
>        Thanks for your help kids.
>