1989 B150 Cargo Van -- 3.9L (239 cu-in) V6 -- 3 speed automatic no overdrive. VIN # 2B7GB11X9KK320218 --- Code number embossed on side of bell housing is 198-7. Transmission will not shift into reverse until warm, otherwise transmission works well. Have changed oil, flushed entire transmission, changed filter -- no improvement. Adding SeaFoam TransTune results in immediate engagement of reverse, even when cold, but it slowly reverted to slow engagement again within a couple of weeks. Van has no market value to justify a transmission overhaul so considering a "bone-yard" replacement. Can anyone tell me what transmissions types and years will mount on this V6 engine? Thank you.

 

When you did the fluid and filter on your trans, did you follow the procedure to adjust the Low/Reverse band? This is the one where the adjustment screw is located behind the filter. When I did my tranny last time I over adjusted it and started having this problem. I have a supposition on the fix, but since it is now winter, I haven't had the weather to attempt a fix. You might try loosening the adjustment lock screw and backing off the adjustment screw itself., Then let it sit for a bit before Re tightening it to see if that takes care of the problem.

My end plan for this problem is that I am going to install the OD-4 manual transmission out of my deceased '83 van. The manual is an option on '79-'87 only though, and that is the specific reason that I picked up the '87 in the first place. I had hoped to get the manual rebuilt first, but that doesn't seem to be in the with this slow reverse issue.

 

Thank you, IGadget, for the quick and informative reply. No --- I am ignorant about transmissions and their adjustments. I just had the local transmission shop change the fluid (using ATF+) and the filter, then they did a total replacement flush. Maybe I will have to learn how to adjust it, or go back to the shop. Unfortunately my experience has been that transmission repair shops are the most slimy of the auto repair services --- the horror stories are all too common, and I greatly hesitate to go to them. I have had three transmissions rebuilt over many years. The first one on my F150 failed within 6 months and the shop refused any responsibility. The second one was on a Chrysler LHS and it lasted a couple of years. The last one was on a Ford Taurus done by the dealership and it has been fine now for about 40k miles, but it was VERY costly. So, because the 89 van has a market value of about $500 (but it is good mechanical condition due to spending a lot of money on it recently) it leads me to look for a used but functional traansmission replacement, if I knew what transmission(s) that would be, and where to find one reasonably priced. Again -- I appreciate your information! Bob W.

 

well even though you are not interested in doing the repair yourself, I'd suggest htat you pick up a HAYNES manual. That has drawings of the two main automatic trasmission types with their names, then you can compare them to what you have. If you goto most part stores they should have the manual. I think the automatics are in Chapter 7B. If my memory isnt serving me faulty, there should be a number cast into the body of the transmission that should either have the model or a number that can be looked up to find the model/ if the picture doenst help. usually grime has to be removed though/ though you can also see if the trans shop actually cleaned it before removing the fluid.

Good luck