My engine just started giving me problems, it revs before going into the next gear almost as if it is in neutral for 2 seconds then it kicks in. When it does shift to the next gear there is no power, I can go about 20mph tops. I just spoke with a friend who said when his tranny was going he had all this oily/greasy substance that sprayed all over the rear end of his vehicle, presumably transmission fluid, and I am experiencing the same thing.

What could it be, what are my options. I'm not a do-it-youself mechanic but I often purchase the parts I need online. There is a local garage that specializes in Volvos so I was thinking of taking it there to have it diagnosed, but I wanted to get a feeling about what it might be before I shell out $$$ for a new tranny when all I needed was a $5 seal/gasket.

Thanks,
Sam (Portland, ME)

If it is low on fluid it will do some of the bad things you are getting. Put some in, see where it goes...the resevoir you see may be for something else. It isn't black plastic, perchance? Yes, there are several great indies around town. The one down on St John Street is one of the more expensive, if you need help. Do some dialing. My neighbors swear by Jimino in Windham.

You fail to mention what year the car is but chances are you have an AW transmission and they are extremely good units. Have you been monitoring the fluid level since it started depositing fluid on the back of the car? Any automatic transmission will display weird behavior if the fluid is low. Could be a bad seal but unless you keep the fluid within safe levels if you continue to drive it you could cook it. If it is toast you might consider a used one with a warrenty rather than paying for a new one.

Randy

It is a 1990 240DL wagon.

I checked the trans fluid and the stick is dry but the resevoir is half full and there are floaties in it, almost like darkened orange juice pulp. Maybe I just need a good flush and to have the seals checked/replaced?