possible problems with the 88 4+3 trans, anyone had this happen??

[corvetteDan]

Ok, so here I am heading down the hwy around 75 mph in 4th with the OD. Cruise control is on and the radio is bringing in some really nice 70-80's music.. (had to set the stage here). All is fine and the car is just eating up the road, when the car shakes, and seems to come out of OD (I think the light went out), the engine reves up a bit, and then back into OD. The cruise control never went off. The car just lurched for a min and then went back to eating up the road. All of this took perhaps 1/2 to a full second.

Anyone ever have this happen? Is this some indication that the 4+3 is about to go? I've never had any other problems with the trans.... any insight guys?

 

[wallyknoch]

Change the filter and fluid in the OD unit

 

[corvetteDan]

Thanks gents, I have placed an order from mid america for the filter. In fact, the current fluid in the trans is only around 5 months old, not many miles but the car sat for most of the time. The filter was not changed the last time and I have hopes this is the cause.

Can't hurt to chanrge the fluid and filter. If she still has problems I suppose I'll be seeking a 6 speed replacement....

 

[hAZcAT]

maybe something loose in the wiring? a bit of corrosion in a connection?

 

[WhalePirot]

Anyone ever have this happen??

Yes, often.

Is this some indication that the 4+3 is about to go??

Not necessarily.

any insight guys?

Do some searching and reading of the threads, to save some time.
Key, is whether the light goes off or not. If the light extinguishes when the O/D drops off, the issue is control; electrical; perhaps a bad (inexpensive) relay.

OR, the ECM may be telling it to shut off, which in the situation you describe, might indicate the ECM thinking it has open loop (cold engine) conditions. That could be the result of a bad sensor (temp, is one?) or another poor running condition.

I said it B4 and will again. I once fixed this condition with new plug wires. Misfiring will alter the exhaust gasses, as seen by the oxygen sensor; a key part of the feedback loop.

Try to note the light, the gauge indications and other conditions and symptoms if it happens again.