Trans slip?

[scrappy]

The trans (3T40 in my '89 beretta is slipping on the 2nd-3rd shift. The rpms actually increase and it takes a long time to get it to engage 3rd. I can get it to shift quickly if I back out of the throttle. Is it tranny rebuild time? or is there something else that can cause a soft shift like I am experiencing? As far as I know the fluid is still original and is a light brown color and smells like its burnt. Would it help to change the fluid and filter?

I have a parts car with a 5spd. that I am thinking of putting in this beretta but can't get the parts to do the swap 'til this summer. (if this tranny will make it 'til then)

[gpse3400]

Brown fluid isn't good. It's over used. Change out the fluid and the filter. The Filter might be partially clogged causeing a slow shift to 3rd, and or the addiditve package of the fluid is just shot. If you still have reverse then the direct clutch is ok. I'd do a power brake in revse and see if the engine stalls the torque coverter. If the engine keeps winding up past 3000 rpm then it would most likely be the direct clutch is slipping. Only do it for a few seconds max or you'll overheat the transmission. Eitherway I think it'll operate a whole llot better on a fluid/ filter change. If you can get a flush that would be better.

[sharkey]

if the oil is burnt and its slipping, the damage is done. changing the fluid will be a waste of your money, its not going to fix it.

[scrappy]

Trans fluid does turn brown as it ages. I changed the fluid and filter today, the oil was about the same color as new engine oil and smelled like it had been warm but didn't really seem like it was burnt. There was the normal metal paste on the magnet so I know there is still some facing material left on the clutches. I think it still had the factory fill in it and the fluid is just worn out! When I refilled it I also dumped a bottle of Lucas AT additive in it to see if it would help. At first, it was still slipping but is getting better as I drive it. I don't expect it to live forever but I just need it to last to August!

[scrappy]

I think it is more than just the fluid, I think the trans kickdown linkage isn't right yet, I fashioned a bracket for the throttle and it still isn't right, now it is holding each gear until I get on the throttle heavy and it will shift and bark the tires.