Subaru Repair: subaru trany, subaru forester, signs of trouble

Question
 I have a 99 subaru forester.  The engine was replaced at 86,000 but that is another story.  Any way I have 108,000 miles on it now.  My problem now is when I put the car in drive there is a hesitation before it will go into gear.  It does this especially in the morning when I first start out.  There is no hesitation when I put it in reverse.  The trany fluid level is good and the fluid is clean.  The fluid looks like it was just put in.  When I had the engine changed the shop changed the trany fluid and filter.  unfortunately the shop that did my engine is 120 miles away or I would bring it right back to them.  I do not want to take it to the dealer because they are overpriced hacks. Do have any Ideas?
Thanks
Emile Lafargue
West orange NJ

Answer
Its possible that the filter is restricted.Your symptom usually indicates that pump pressure is low.And a restricted filter can affect pressure.But that being said it may be signs of trouble ahead such as a weakening transmission pump.I have had a lot of customers live with that symptom and not have to make expensive repairs.Hope that helps

Justin
All Wheel Drive Auto