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Hard shift from park in cold weather


bluebirdvision

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1999 Buick Regal LS 158,000

 

In the cold weather If I start the car, and try to take off without letting the car run for about 10 minutes (no I don't just get in there start it up, and slam it into gear) it goes into gear hard. I figured out by watching the tach that the car is in high idle, and the increased RPMs is causing it to slam into gear. My Dad's Avalanche (which I learned to drive in) has a VERY short high idle period, Start it up, it'll stay up for about a minute and it will slowly decrease to lower idle.

 

It takes about 10 minutes for my car to return to normal idle. My solution right now is to let the car run 10-15 minutes, then it doesn't slam, but I really shouldn't have to do that at 60 degrees.... Is this normal for a 3.8L, just curious, I'm wondering if there is a sensor on the transmission that has gone bad causing it to stay in high idle longer than normal.

 

Thanks

bbvision

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coolant temp sensor is the largest factor in determining proper idle speed.

 

being a 4T65, the problem can't be manifold vacuum or the lack of it reaching the modulator, so we'll rule that out instantly.

 

however, how old is the current fluid/filter?

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After driving the car, it shifts much better now. Talked to my Uncle who preformed the service on the trans) He said it was recommended to him that he use Dexron 6 fluid. He said I might even experience a little better shifting going down the road. I didn't think I was having trouble with that before, but it shifts REALLY well now.

It was 70 degrees this morning, and it came off high idle almost instantly. YAY.

 

Now having trouble with the strut bearings tho. :(

 

It sure ain't no Blue Bird bus, that's for sure. I'd prefer the bus. lol

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