Powerglide problem

[Vincent B.]

i brought my '54 in for some engine work. my mechanic removed the engine, did the necessary repairs and put the engine back in. now i have no reverse. it worked fine before the engine removal. forward gears work fine. he even put it up on the lift, disconnected the linkage and shifted it by hand...nothing. any thoughts ?

[Tony R.]

Re: Powerglide problem

But it does have forward gears?

[Chris S.]

Re: Powerglide problem

Fluid level ok ?

[Vincent B.]

Re: Powerglide problem

But it does have forward gears?

tony, yes, forward gears work fine. we didn't remove trans for engine repairs. re-installed engine and now no reverse...worked fine before

[Vincent B.]

Re: Powerglide problem

fluid level good

[Vincent B.]

Re: Powerglide problem

if it does have to be rebuilt, what would a reasonable price be ?

[Chris S.]

Re: Powerglide problem

is the fluid red and clean ? not burnt
I rebuild mine for 1200 to 1600

[Domenic T.]

Re: Powerglide problem

If I remember right when I worked for Chevy dealership, reverse was dependent of correct fluid. Especially if torque converter was low. Maybe try over filling it if the converter did not take enough. I seem to remember that reverse would not work with low fluid.
Good advice from other posts.

Dom

[David M.]

Re: Powerglide problem

Verify the linkage and shifter are adjusted correctly and actually shifting the trans into reverse. I'm no early glide guy but an auto is an auto.

The quickest way to trouble shoot an automatic is:
1. Verify fluid condition/level. Fluid should be changed periodically just do to age.
2. Verify shift linkage movement. Disconnect the linkage at the trans and shift it into reverse. Can you feel the detent? Now try it with the wheels off the ground engine running. Does it move the wheels?
3. Read the line pressures. Im not sure where and if a glide has pressure ports but it should?

An automatic is nothing more than a hydraulic pump. If the line circuit pressure(s) are incorrect it will not operate properly.

Have you had a conversation with the guy who did the engine installation?
Did he test run the car after the repair?