Tranny Problems....

I own a 1994 5.7L Caprice with the 4L60E Trans and I only drive it in the spring and summer. I pulled it out the garage for the first time since mid Octobe to drive around for paint estimates on her. While driving I notice that when I accelerate after a total stop it seems like the trans is slipping past first gear and in to 2nd. What could be the potential problem and how can it be fixed? I don't know if rebuilding is an option or if I need an entirely new trans. Any help is appreciated...

How is the condition of the fluid? It could be an indication of wear or internal damage. Methinks it has something to do with the application of the 2-4 servo (2-4 band going into 2nd), could be a leaking seal or a damaged bore.

Im not sure on the fluid condition, I will check though. What exactly am I looking for with the fluid? Im not that good with trannys. If this is the problem how can it be fixed?

Well the condition of the fluid will tell a lot about the condition of the transmission overall. What you WANT to see is a clear, red to reddish-orange color with a sweet odor. If you see cloudy, brown, black, murky or strong-smelling oil, that can indicate internal slippage, either in the transmission or in the torque converter. If you're getting a slip (flare) on the 1-2 shift, that could be an indication that the 2-4 band is worn or burned, or that the 2-4 servo (applies the band) is in some way not 100%, or that the line pressure is low.

I had the same thing happen in my trans... had to re-build it It lost first gear initially then about 6 months after the re-build it had trouble getting into 2nd gear, I would have to completly let off the gas for it to shift into 2nd. Luckily it was under warranty. If you plan on keeping the car for awile get a life time warranty or take it to a trusted trans shop. I've seen many 4l60e transmissions go out shortly after a re-build

also now is a perfect time to upgrade your trans or torque converter!

Getting clean oil in the trans is a good idea. While the pan is off, you might want to check the 1-2 shift solenoid valve and coil, and the PWM pressure control solenoid valve and coil. The 1-2 coil should have about 30 ohms resistance, ±10 ohms, and the PWM pressure control coil should be 3-8 ohms.

Along the lines of silicon's advice, you might also want to adapt a pressure gauge and check the line pressure. In DRIVE, the pressure should be at least 55 PSIG, in manual 1st it should be closer to 65 PSIG minimum.