Slipping Auto Box

[likaleica]

I have a 1983 Bedford CF campervan with a 3 speed GM auto box that's started slipping slightly when accelerating at low revs. It's also sometimes possible to start the engine when the shift is in drive or reverse.
I'd be grateful for any advice on 1) what the likely faults are, 2) a ballpark figure for having them fixed 3) any recommendations for a sensibly priced auto box specialist in north London/south Herts.

Thanks

[stevieturbo]

Not overly local, but this man knows a thing or two about autos and could repair.

http://www.redvictor1racing.co.uk/index.php/contac...

[eliot]

First of all - check the oil level. Low oil will cavitate in the pump resulting in low pressure and less clamping force on the bands and clutches.

Warm the box up, leave engine running and in park (with hand brake on for safety) and then check the dipstick level for the transmission.

I would expect to find it towards the rear of the engine bay with a largish tube (around 15mm diameter). You top the level up by adding oil down the dipstick tube (yes!).

Also inspect the oil if you can, it should be cherry red ideally, but more likely dull red. If its black, brown and smells burnt - then there's probably too much damage already and a rebuild is coming your way soon. In the meantime take it easy on the box and dont drive it in a way that causes it to slip.

Autoboxes aren't that difficult to fix if you are that way inclined.

[likaleica]

Thanks guys - will check the level as advised and see where we go from there !

[likaleica]

It looks as if it was low transmission fluid level causing the problem. Checking the dipstick as you would for engine oil (engine cold and not running) the reading looked correct as did the fluid's colour. But following Eliot's advice to get the engine running with the auto box in park produced a very different result ! The fluid barely made it to the LOW mark on the stick. Half a litre of Dexron II later, all appears well. Thanks Eliot for saving me a costly trip to a specialist who would doubtless have found reasons for me to spend a shedload of money !

[eliot]

Great news. Sounds like you caught it before any damage was done too - good stuff.