I have an AW71 trans. and the shifting from 2nd to 3rd when cold is slow. Allso when put in reverse it takes about 10 to 15 sec.to engauge. Once the fluid warms up it shifts good and reverse works fine. My question is (1) is the problem in the valve body? (2) If so,can you buy just a valve body and replace it? (3) Or is it better just getting a good used AW71? Thanks for any replies,Charlie

When mine started doing this I did the flush thing, new filter, bottle of "snake-oil" and nothing changed. I went to a highly respected tranny shop and he explained about some rubber seals (kinda like rings on a piston, I gathered) getting hard and not sealing an actuating piston in it's bore when they were cold.

I fixed mine easily by dropping it on the ground, kicking it to the curb, and installing an M46. ;-)

Good luck,

Justin B.
83 Turbo

Try flushing the fluid before you decide anything- the 700FAQ has good instructions. A synthetic fluid is also recommended by lots of people on here- though I've always used regular brands of ATF and never had a problem.
Good luck!
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Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: 86 244DL, 87 244DL, 88 744GLE, 91 244: 808K total

I too can recommend the flushing and synthetic fluid. It revived my AW that had delayed shifts and flaky overdrive. No guaranty but worth a try. If tranny is shot do not get it rebuilt. Throw in a used. Those trannies are generally bullet proof and outlast the car. Available and cheap at the wreckers.
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David Hunter