Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) transmission questions

[bigtoy]

Bought my CTD last December. So far I love it! I realize that the auto transmission is probably the weakest link of the truck. I think I will baby it along with plans of eventually installing a Goerend Bros. unit. The biggest problem I have is when its cold 10 deg. or colder. It takes 15 - 20 seconds to engage once you shift to drive. I will ususally start the truck then put the transmission in neutral to circulate the fluid for a few minutes. then it will usuaaly engage fairly quick. Once the truck is warmed up there is no problem. I thought maybe I would service the transmission. the manual says you should also adjust the bands each time you change the fluid. Is this true? I also thought of using a synthetic fluid to avoid cold stiff fluid.

 

[Joe G.]

The torque convertor drains overnight. No problem really. The idle in N fills it back up. Torque Flite transmissions have been that way for a long time. My Dad's '63 Plymouth muscle car did the same thing. Nothing to worry about.

 

[dalton4]

I'm not saying this is your problem, but check your fluid level and be sure it is full. The pump may be picking up fluid after it warms up and expands. It is normal to have a small delay if there is torque converter drain back, but it shouldn't take several minutes.