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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1964 Pontiac LeMans Transmission issues

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Expert: - 9/6/2008


Question
I own a 64 LeMans convertible, and my two speed automatic, when cold, will downshift very hard...once the car is warmed up, it shifts fine...both up and down.  What causes this, can it be fixed, and what should I watch for.

Also, how do I have the column mounted transmission shift lever adjusted and tightened...right now, it easily slips from neutral to drive...and back..and its hard to tell what gear its in by looking at the column mounted indicator.

We drive this car once or twice a month...and less than 2,000 miles a year...

Answer
Hi David:
I'm sure there is some wear in the gears and that could cause hard shifting until warm. It take (especial old cars) a long time for the transmission fluid to move from the pan to the gears. If your filter is dirty, it could be taking longer than normal. Change your fluid and filter and put in a premium grade fluid like Dexron II. For older cars with lots of miles, its the best.

Repairing your gear shift is a bit more complicated. The old "on the column" shift will usually miss-align after 60K to 90K miles. You would have the take the column apart and replace a few worn parts that controls the shift position. You may want to trust this to an expert to get is right without messing up your transmission linkage.

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.

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