I have a 1995 Neon with 138,000 miles on it and now the automatic transmission is not working correctly. It will not shift out of 1st gear at all, even if you move the shift lever down manually. I have changed the fluid and filter, the filter was dirty. But after all this, still the same problem. The Haynes book is very vague about the auto tranny. Reverse works fine, it just won't go into second or third. What am I missing?

 

Well! It just happens I have the Mopar 1995 repair manual sitting beside me right now.

It's way to hard to try to translate the diagnostic flow chart into a shorty post, but here's a few ideas:

First, as the manual suggests--check all the easy stuff--especially fluid level.
Secondly if it turns out you do need parts, pay attention to this comment: "Transaxle operation requirements are different for each engine combination. Some internal parts will be different to provide for this. Therefore, when replacing parts, refer to the seven digit part number stamped on the rear of the transaxle oil pan flange."

Thirdly: some ideas based on the troubleshoot guide:
A "No Drive in Forward Positions" (sorry there isn't one for no drive in just 2nd and 3rd) says possible causes are:
Planetary Gear sets broken or seized
Worn or fault rear clutch
Faulty cooling system
Worn or Faulty front clutch
Driveshaft(s) bushings damaged
Valve body malfunction or leakage
Hydraulic pressures too low
Engine idel speed to high.



Having said all that I interpret thusly: Either you don't have enough fluid in the tranny (if the tranny's in good shape) or at 138,000 miles it's about time you rebuild the clutch pack and take a look at the valve body while you're at it. . . . . This would be a good time to look at modernperformance.com and see if you want to go with performance valve body, etc.


good luck.

 

Where abouts do you live?

I have a 95 Neon I am using for spare parts - the transmission worked great in it -however it has been sitting for over 6 months - it is an automatic and can not use it for racing!

 

I live in VA Beach. Would the tranny you have have to be pulled by me??

 

I could possibly pull the Tranny out for you - depends on when you would want to get it?
This coming weekends is not good for me since Iam rebuilding my engine and I have to work this coming weekend. the Weekend after is Race at Road Atlanta - but I could probably yank it out the end of the month!

When would you like try to get it?

Greg

 

Greg, you've got mail.