1999 caravan 3 spd trans does not go into reverse when cold.After it warms up no problems at all. Also when it shifts from 2nd to 3 rd,it shifts at about 60 mph. would a filter and fluid change be recommended since there is 150k on the van. I have never had any trans work done before!......Any ideas????

 

It may help, But I would also adjust the bands too. At the same time, I would also replace the governor body and both valves and the check the kick cable as well.

 

Changing the fluid could help , but before pan removal , do understand that removing the pan is also going to be part of the diagnostics...Look to see if pan is clean or contaminated.....removing pan and finding debri means your trans is going down...

here is how i would diagnose this problem.
1. I would let the trans shift from 1-2 cold and then let off gas and place gear selector in manual low gear. you should feel a braking effect...If you do, then I would suspect the low band and seals in the servo are ok. If you do not feel the braking effect, then the problem is in the low band circuit and or seals that apply the band servo.

2. If you feel the braking effect then it would seem that the front clutch is not applying when cold. I kinda suspect this because of the delayed 2-3 shift...However that may be another problem...If it turns out to be in the front clutch circuit, it may be that the seals are just wore out and need to be warmed to seal...

3. at this point I would remove pan, if contaminated,your best best is to remove and repair.....If clean,then check band adjustments and change fluid and see what happens...Goodluck