[GeWilli]

After changing the tranny fluid which had been in there for who knows how long and was about 1/2 - 1 quart low and barely red anymore to a synthetic universal ATF I've been expereiencing a grinding into first gear at speeds over 10-15mph.

anyone have a reason? The car is an '86 240 DL wagon auto overdrive 4 speed with 225k miles on it. The fluid was replaced at 223k miles and the grinding is still there. We are getting used to driving with it but I am wondering if it is okay. . .

 

[towerymt]

The clutch cable may need to be adjusted. Does it grind at all going into reverse? Adjusting the guide plate may also help (remove shift boot and you'll see a small metal plate that prevents accidental shifting into reverse. It also helps align the shift lever when going into 1st or 2nd). I've noticed that it can be difficult to get my 240 into first when going 15mph or more, so I try not to force it. If you try to shift into 1st and it won't go, just hold the gear shift lever with light pressure until it does. Does shifting feel smoother overall? When I changed the fluid in my M47, I noticed a big difference, and I didn't even use synthetic. Another possibility could be bad 1st gear synchros, but I don't really know what that's like. Hope this helps.

Good luck.