Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) transmission not engaging

[Steve51]

Hi, I have a problem that maybe someone else has had. I have a 96 1 ton 4x4 auto trans. and when I put it into foward or reverse it hesitates before it decides to move. It will act as though it is in nuetral until I give it a little throttle and then it engages. It does it in both foward and reverse. It does not do it every time I drive it but it seem as though it is doing it more frequently.

Thanks to anyone with feedback.

 

[Hummin Cummins]

If it does it after it has not been run for a few hours, it is normal. It is caused by fluid draining back from the torque converter. When you start it, put it in neutral for a bit, then go. The stock valve body doesnt flow oil in park, but it does in neutral.



Double check your fluid level too. (although you probably already did this)



Chris



edit: Welcome to the TDR. Build yourself a signature line so we can see what truck/mods you have.

 

[HerbW]

Bands adjusted?

When I change fluid there is a forward and reverse band that needs adjusting located inside the pan. The factory service guide says it should be adjusted every 24K miles. There is also one on the outside that needs adjusted at the same time also. I had the same trouble you describe and after I serviced the transmission, no more waiting. Like the member before Me wrote, low fluid will also cause this hesitation. Let us know, Herb

 

[BigPapa]

Mine does this when I park facing uphill over night. The neutral trick works.

 

[Skydiver]

Mine does this unexpectedly when the transmission gets about a QUART low. Can be dangerous in heavy traffic.

Tim