Classic/Antique Car Repair: chevy350 van / automatic transmission, transmission job, hi tim

Question
Vern, The auto runs fine for about the first 5 minutes. Then there is a delay in shifting from 1st to 2nd. Instead of shift at about 18mph shift happens at about 24mph. Then after a few more minutes of driving, there is slippage in 2nd gear. Fluid is full but hasn't been changed for several years. All driving done in city, below 30mph. Any ideas?
-------------Tim

Answer
Hi Tim:
Depending on the mileage, you could have worn bands. Since the transmission hasn't been serviced in several year, before you go through an expensive transmission rebuild, change the fluid and filter and add Lucas Transmission Fix (24 oz.) for about $15.

Don't over fill your transmission. Make sure you tell who ever is servicing your transmission to leave the fluid about a quart low, so you can add the Lucas Transmission Fix.

Keep in mind, this will prolong the life of your transmission, but it won't repair the problem. It will save you from a $4,000 to 5,000 transmission job at least for a couple of years.