Here's a good one. I've agreed (and already paid $350 for ) a '79 wagon which has among other things an almost new steering rack, and a newish compressor. Also came with a brand spanking new rear quarter panel. Trouble is, when I go to pick it up...The wagon, she won't engage into gear, any gear. Now mind you I haven't test driven her yet (as she has a shot fan clutch, and until now, no battery). However I agreed to put out the cash upon the soothing reasurance from the kind owner that the wagon was "just driven yesterday and ran like a champ". What can I say, I trust people at their word. The "former" owner sez that the wagon will go into gear after warming up for awhile. I didn't warm her up too much, I'll admit. The question: Is the fan clutch problem related to the non engagement. And if not...is the tranny shot, or possibly something else??? I just don't want to pay for a tow, which is only a scant seven blocks! As always, thanks.

/// You did check the fluid level, right? Fluid expands when hot. That's why there are two scales on the dipstick. Your complaint is clasic of low fluid and with a minor leak it could have worked yesterday and not today. It also could be just what Don said or just plain worn out.

If you're desperate, try 4-6 ounces of lacquer thinner in the tranny fluid. It'll dissolve the sticky crap that gums up the valve body. After several weeks of driving, dump the fluid.

"Is the fan clutch problem related to the non engagement..."

Not likely. But they may both be influenced by the temperature.

"...if not...is the tranny shot, or possibly something else???"

A '79, it may have 22-year old fluid in the transmission. The tranny is probably well varnished.

"...don't want to pay for a tow..."

Hey, I can understand that. Start it and let it warm up. Tell the owner the sale depends on his claim that it WILL shift once well warmed up (his words).