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4T65E Trans Shift Hard, P1811 DTC


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gjhunter01
04-16-2008, 10:41 PM
Hi - I was on my way back from Flordia to Mich. this last weekend, when my 01 Lesabre trans started acting up about half way home. The car was loaded and running 75-80 mph when we came into stop and go traffic on a 85 deg day. Shortly after we got into the heavy traffic, I noticed the trans shifting hard and lurching forward from 1-2 and 2-3 gears. After about a mile, I pulled over, let the car cool for a half an hour and added a quart of trans oil ( it was full, but figured an extra qt. would not hurt it now). After that the car starting shifting better and now shifts like normal. I had changed the trans oil 2k before the trip. The car has 125k and I have only owned it for 2 months. Any ideas what happened and suggestions on what to expect or things I could do to extend it's life.

BNaylor
04-17-2008, 11:15 AM
When the tranny fluid was changed before the trip was that a pan drop service with screen filter and ATF (Dexron-III) only or a flush? Is it still shifting normal? Also, make sure the excess ATF doesn't come out the overflow valve.

A common problem with the 4T65E autotransaxle is the pressure control solenoid (PCS) causing the hard shifting and in most cases upshifts only. If this is the case with yours then a scan with a trans capable scan tool may reveal a stored DTC of P1811 (max adapt, long shift) which would confirm the PCS is suspect.

gjhunter01
04-17-2008, 10:28 PM
Thanks for the reply, I did drop the pan and changed the filter before the trip, but it was not flushed, just drained. I have been driving it to work all week and just today, Thurs. it started upshifting hard on the way home in all three shifts. How can I get the code checked, is this a dealer only scanner? If PCS is the problem, how hard is it to replace, would I need to remove the valve body?

gjhunter01
05-02-2008, 11:27 PM
I just wanted to add a update. I tried half a pint of Seafoam Trans Tune in the trans. and like the label say's the hard shifting has gone away going on 3 weeks now driving 60 miles a day. I was told this might clean out the tarnish build up in the PCS. So far so good.

BNaylor
05-04-2008, 10:29 AM
Sometimes the Seafoam tranny additive works so it doesn't hurt to try it. However, in most cases it is just a bandaid fix and the problem may reoccur. Also, it dilutes the ATF and you may develop other issues. If you do another pan drop you'll see your ATF will be very dark since the Seafoam did it's job so I would not run with it too long. Pic shows fluid drained from a '98 Lesabre with 140K miles that ran Seafoam for about two weeks. The ATF looked fine before that.


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC00109.jpg

imidazol97
05-04-2008, 01:38 PM
. Pic shows fluid drained from a '98 Lesabre with 140K miles that ran Seafoam for about two weeks. The ATF looked fine before that.


How many times had the fluid been changed in the 98 LeSabre before that? It picked up a lot of crud using the SeaFoam!

GJhunter01 should be sure to change the filter too if SeaFoam picks up that much stuff. His filter will be partly blocked already.

BNaylor
05-04-2008, 02:05 PM
Just goes to show that the Seafoam does work but I don't think it should be left in the tranny for any extended period of time. It is not an ATF conditioner.

On this particular LeSabre the first pan drop service with new Dexron III ATF and screen filter was done around 70K miles. Then around 125K miles when we had Cottman's replace the PCS solenoid. However, at around 135K miles the hard shifts and the P1811 DTC (max adapt, long shift) returned.

The LeSabre was one of my test vehicles, a total of 3 GM cars with the 4T65E autotransaxle in which I ran a GM Tech II scan tool and found the shift timing was out of specs...greater than .65 seconds causing the P1811 DTC to set and commanding high line pressure (max) and as a result the hard upshifts and in some the whining sound. This is to be expected due to tranny fair wear and tear and clutch pack material wearing away.

What we did was add the Seafoam to clean it out. Ran it for a couple of weeks and then did a pan drop with a new Filtran screen filter. The AC Delco TF304 screen filter is identical by the way and in reality a Filtran brand in Delco packaging. Then I added a a shift kit which was installed in the 1-2, 2-3 accumulator which can be accessed from underneath. Topped it all off with the new Dexron VI. Used the Wallyworld Supertech brand Dexron VI for $3.00 per quart since another fluid drain will be performed in about a month.

So far no problems to date and the shifting is excellent. Possibly a good work around for people having PCS issues or re-ocurring PCS issues. Time will tell.

scorp102
05-08-2008, 10:15 AM
I went to wallmart to find a bottle of seafoam. I found a white metal can that said seafoam, but it did not say anything on the can concerning the transmission fluid. I just stated oil. Would someone be willing to post a link or a pic as to what the product looks like? Are there 2 diffrent kinds?


Thank you for your help!

BNaylor
05-08-2008, 10:19 AM
I went to wallmart to find a bottle of seafoam. I found a white metal can that said seafoam, but it did not say anything on the can concerning the transmission fluid. I just stated oil. Would someone be willing to post a link or a pic as to what the product looks like? Are there 2 diffrent kinds?


Yes. One for the engine used in the gas tank or top engine cleaner and the tranny version which is used for the tranny and power steering pumps. Around $6 per can. Called Seafoam Trans Tune. See link below.

Click here (http://www.seafoamsales.com/transTune.htm)

scorp102
05-08-2008, 11:40 AM
Yes. One for the engine used in the gas tank or top engine cleaner and the tranny version which is used for the tranny and power steering pumps. Around $6 per can. Called Seafoam Trans Tune. See link below.

Click here (http://www.seafoamsales.com/transTune.htm)

Awesome ty very much! As I wright this post, my buick is at the trans mech doing a free diagnostic check of the trans, getting a code reading from any stored DCs. Hopefully it will be as easy as changing the PCS and a good flushing with seafoam. I will keep you posted as to what the mech says when he calls in about an hour.

Thanks again!

scorp102
05-09-2008, 01:08 PM
Ok, it was as you said. The lovely P1811 code. I bought a pint of Seafoam, followed the directions, added the whole pint. And today it did great, until it started again.

So, I am assuming the has come down to changing the PCS. If I ask a mechanic to change the PCS pressure control Silinoid, how much would be a good price to go by as to what I should be charged?

Or your idea on how I should go about this.


Thank You!

BNaylor
05-09-2008, 01:21 PM
Ok, it was as you said. The lovely P1811 code. I bought a pint of Seafoam, followed the directions, added the whole pint. And today it did great, until it started again.

So, I am assuming the has come down to changing the PCS. If I ask a mechanic to change the PCS pressure control Silinoid, how much would be a good price to go by as to what I should be charged?

Or your idea on how I should go about this.


Thank You!

You'd probably want to take it a specialist like a transmission shop. Cost will vary depending on where you live. Cottman's which is also AAMCO here charged around $600 with the part. But they tried awfully hard to convince us to get a rebuild which was declined.

Or you're welcome to try my work around suggestion but at your own risk. To date all I can proudly report is none of the test vehicles where this procedure was applied have any further issues.

For the accumulator shift mod I can direct you to a place on-line that sells it. If you can DIY a pan drop service then you could do this mod or have a general mechanic do it. Also, I would highly recommend switching over to the new Dexron VI with this mod. I have noted no issues. Also, I can post pics of how the accumulator looks and how the mod is done.

scorp102
05-09-2008, 04:47 PM
For the accumulator shift mod I can direct you to a place on-line that sells it. If you can DIY a pan drop service then you could do this mod or have a general mechanic do it. Also, I would highly recommend switching over to the new Dexron VI with this mod. I have noted no issues. Also, I can post pics of how the accumulator looks and how the mod is done.

That would be great if you could show some pics. I might try to do this myself.

The "new Dexron VI" is a filter? Sorry for the ignorance. Thank you for your help.

BNaylor
05-09-2008, 06:41 PM
That would be great if you could show some pics. I might try to do this myself.

The "new Dexron VI" is a filter? Sorry for the ignorance. Thank you for your help.

You're welcome.

The Dexron VI is automatic transmission fluid (ATF). The older version is Dexron III. All 2006 and up GM cars now come with Dexron VI from the factory. The typical shift kits will come with a screen filter and the spacers required to improve the shifting. Also, full documentation to do the mod. The kits range from $18-$30 or higher depending on the company. If you add up the total cost of the Dexron VI and the shift kit you'll see the cost is way less than replacing the PCS solenoid. Best part it is a DIY job. Less than a $60 expenditure. The pan drain plug shown in the first pic was added to make draining easier on the next service.


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC09997.jpg
8 qts Supertech brand Dexron VI, ZZP Shift Kit with screen filter and pan drain plug.


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC00014.jpg
Pan removed on 4T65E autotransaxle showing screen filter and accumulator.


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC00007.jpg
4T65E accumulator removed and disassembled showing 1-2, 2-3 pistons/springs

scorp102
05-10-2008, 11:18 AM
You are awesome! Thank you for taking the time to show me! I will gather the parts and and get to work.

Thanks again!

BNaylor
05-10-2008, 11:20 AM
You are awesome! Thank you for taking the time to show me! I will gather the parts and and get to work.

Thanks again!

You're welcome. If you need any further assistance including where to get the parts just PM me.

gjhunter01
05-20-2008, 10:03 PM
Just wanted to do a follow up to the original problem. I ran the trans tune seafoam in the trans for about 2 weeks, 600 miles, and the trans worked fine. I dropped the pan and changed the oil and it sure looked dirty even though it had only 3k miles, the seafoam did the job. On BNayor's advice, I also installed the ZZPerformance kit with the spacers for the solenoid and put in 8 quarts of Dextron III (could not find Dextron IV). The trans now runs like new and the shifts are hardly noticeable. Thank you BNaylor for your help.

BNaylor
05-25-2008, 10:43 AM
You're welcome and thanks for the feedback. Thats Dexron VI which is readily available at any auto parts store but no problems using the Dexron III.

About all I can say in closing is all my test vehicles are working like a champ so far racking up thousands of miles. Statistically give or take about 60% of the harsh shift, launch shudder and P1811 DTC is PCS related the other 40% internal issues such as the second clutch pack, accumulator wear or other fair wear and tear, etc. While the shift kit mod may not be the ultimate fix it sure does help and may save members a lot of money or help get many more useful miles out of the autotransaxle. :grinyes:

scorp102
05-26-2008, 11:53 AM
I have purchased the Dexron VI and the trans filter. I ordered the shift kit from ZZP and are awaiting its arival. I tried the Seafoam Trans Tune and it only prolonged the time during an actual drive before the hard shifting returned. (It used to hard shift in about 5 min, now it is around 10min.)


I will install the shift kit as soon as it arrives and report my results from there.


Thanks again for all of your help!

chris_eitniear
05-27-2008, 08:13 AM
Not to get OT, but will this mod work on pretty much any 4T65E? I have a 2000 Montana that's doing the same thing.

BNaylor
05-27-2008, 08:38 AM
Not to get OT, but will this mod work on pretty much any 4T65E? I have a 2000 Montana that's doing the same thing.

No guarantee the mod will work and there are variables but as far as applying it to see if it makes a difference that is not an issue. The shift kit can be used in any GM vehicle that has the 4T65E autotransaxle with GM RPO code MN3, M15 and MN7. The '00 Montana should have the M15 version of the 4T65E.

What are your specific symptoms and any DTCs stored?

chris_eitniear
05-27-2008, 09:10 AM
No guarantee the mod will work and there are variables but as far as applying it to see if it makes a difference that is not an issue. The shift kit can be used in any GM vehicle that has the 4T65E autotransaxle with GM RPO code MN3, M15 and MN7. The '00 Montana should have the M15 version of the 4T65E.

What are your specific symptoms and any DTCs stored?

Thanks for the reply.

I haven't had it scanned, but after a little stop and go traffic, I get the hard shifting on all three shifts and a whining sound. After letting it cool, its ok until it gets back into stop and go traffic again, so I'm almost sure its the PCS causing the trouble.

I had figured on adding some seafoam for a couple of weeks and then doing a fluid/filter change when I do the oil change. I thought as long as I have the pan off, I might as well try the shift kit as long as it will work with the tranny.

BNaylor
05-27-2008, 09:42 AM
Thanks for the reply.

I haven't had it scanned, but after a little stop and go traffic, I get the hard shifting on all three shifts and a whining sound. After letting it cool, its ok until it gets back into stop and go traffic again, so I'm almost sure its the PCS causing the trouble.

I had figured on adding some seafoam for a couple of weeks and then doing a fluid/filter change when I do the oil change. I thought as long as I have the pan off, I might as well try the shift kit as long as it will work with the tranny.

You're welcome.

High probability it is a PCS related issue especially with the combination hard shifts and whining sound. When a P1811 DTC (max adapt, long shift) sets it commands high line pressure (max) and disables shift adapts. As a result you get the hard/harsh shifts and the whining sound from the pump. The DTC sets when the PCM module sees shift timing greater than .65 seconds. What the shift kit does is firm up shifts especially the 1-2 and 2-3 and improves shift timing where the P1811 DTC does not set. As a result no hard shifts and whining sound. Now if the PCS solenoid itself is in really bad shape the mod may not help.

In your situation it won't hurt to try it since you plan on running the Seafoam and doing a pan drop service. All accumulators where the spacers are applied in any 4T65E autotransaxle are the same so there is no reason why it cannot be applied in yours.

scorp102
06-05-2008, 04:28 PM
Well, I have excellent news to report! I installed the shift kit, flushed and replaced the fluid with the Dexron VI, and installed a new fluid filter. The car is shifting and running like a champ! It was ungodly the amount of gunk I cleaned out of the tranny. I am assuming the Sea Foam got most of it loose for me.

You were right about it being a DIY job even for beginners. I must admit I was alittle nervious at first, but when I got the kit, read the instructions and went to town it was much easier than I anticipated. It took me about 3 1/2 hours to do.

But I tell ya, so far smooth as a bell. So far...lol I am afraid that after I write this post Murphys Law will kick me in the rear. I feel like its almost too good to be true.

I cant tell you enough how much I appreciate your time and your help with this situation. You saved me a ton of money and a lot of hassel. Hopefully it will last a long time.


Thanks again!:rofl:

WOODS GTP
04-02-2009, 09:14 AM
WHAT IS A accumulator shift mod & HOW DOES IT WORK THANKS

BNaylor
04-02-2009, 10:34 AM
WHAT IS A accumulator shift mod & HOW DOES IT WORK



Welcome to AF.

See my posts #7 and #14 at this thread.

Basically it firms up or improves upshifts in automatic to improve shift timing to preclude the P1811 DTC from setting and the PCM module commanding high line pressure which causes the hard upshifts or even an annoying whining sound.

Also, see link below.

Click here (http://www.zzperformance.com/grand_prix/products1.php?id=570&catid=105)

Cocopelle
04-05-2009, 10:19 PM
Hey BNaylor,

If a person installed the ZZP shift kit simply to fix the P1811 code on an Olds Intrigue, which of the 4 shift firmness options would you recommend? (This is a daily driver with no other modifications, and not driven aggressively).

Thanks!
Cocopelle

BNaylor
04-05-2009, 10:27 PM
Hey BNaylor,

If a person installed the ZZP shift kit simply to fix the P1811 code on an Olds Intrigue, which of the 4 shift firmness options would you recommend? (This is a daily driver with no other modifications, and not driven aggressively).

Thanks!
Cocopelle

Welcome to AF.

I would go with normal or I think number 2. Whatever the ZZP instruction sheet says or recommends. That is what I used on all GM cars modded.

Cocopelle
05-31-2009, 10:58 AM
Hey BNaylor,

If a person installed the ZZP shift kit simply to fix the P1811 code on an Olds Intrigue, which of the 4 shift firmness options would you recommend? (This is a daily driver with no other modifications, and not driven aggressively).

Thanks!
Cocopelle


Hi BNaylor,

1st of all Thanks for your help. Here's an update on my experience. I dropped the pan and accumulator and found a broken 1-2 accumulator spring. I replaced it and also installed the ZZP shift kit with the recommended spacers. Also installed a new filter, pan gasket and Dextron VI. Things seemed great for a while. But now, I've noticed that the hard shifting will return if the car is driven enough to get hot. Any advice for me? Does the shift kit essentially override the PCS function? Is it possible that replacing the PCS might fix the problem or am I looking at something more? The 2001 Olds Intrigue has 70K miles and has never been driven hard.

Thanks again for your help.

BNaylor
05-31-2009, 08:16 PM
Hi BNaylor,

1st of all Thanks for your help. Here's an update on my experience. I dropped the pan and accumulator and found a broken 1-2 accumulator spring. I replaced it and also installed the ZZP shift kit with the recommended spacers. Also installed a new filter, pan gasket and Dextron VI. Things seemed great for a while. But now, I've noticed that the hard shifting will return if the car is driven enough to get hot. Any advice for me? Does the shift kit essentially override the PCS function? Is it possible that replacing the PCS might fix the problem or am I looking at something more? The 2001 Olds Intrigue has 70K miles and has never been driven hard.

Thanks again for your help.

Did you get it scanned with a trans capable scan tool/scanner? See if a P1811 DTC is stored.

If the PCS is in bad shape the shift kit may not help and may not compensate for a serious PCS issue. All the shift kit does is improve shift timing to reduce or preclude the possibility of a P1811 DTC setting causing high line pressure and the hard shifts. Mainly due to slippage or minor mechanical wear. if the PCS is confirmed bad then it is best to replace it.

012620
06-10-2009, 10:57 AM
Howdy BNaylor,

Thanks to your posts and all the other mods this is a website I always look at for info on my Buick Park Avenue and my Nissan Frontier Truck.

Can you give us a update on the three Buick test cars that you added a shift kit to the autotransaxle. Is the hard shifting issues still under control?

I have a 2000 PA with 47000 miles that just started the hard shift. Only has done it once. The trans fluid was changed at 19000 miles in Sept 06. I thought I would go to a trans shop and have them check for the P1811 code.

I also had a 2000 Century with the same problem. But I did not do anything about the problem for maybe six months. It ended up costing many $$$ to replace PCS and add shift kit. I don't want to wait very long this time if the shift kit might help. I also read that one should use Seafoam to clean out the trans.

Thanks again for all the help the mods do on this website.

kgstrap
07-05-2009, 11:07 AM
We own a 2000 Chevy Venture (102,000 miles) for 5 years now that started a real hard transmission shift about 2 years ago. Took it to a transmission specialist and of course needed a total rebuild at 1800 +$. We started driving another car and basically parked the Venture. Recently I had to put the Venture back into full time service and started researching the trans shift issue and P01811 code. The symptoms were the same as many with these transmissions..hard shifting ...whining pump...sometimes just fine. It seemed logical that the computer was timing the shift and determining a fault followed by an action to max out pressure which in turn causes a hard shift. So just before a family vacation I decided to install a TransGo shift kit and replace the fluid with Dextron VI. After which I drove the car on Vacation totaling around 600 miles...And wow...so far it is great ! Shifting is a little faster, as expected, but no more clunk and clank. The transgo shift kit isnt the least expensive manufacturer but they seemed to have many praises. I spent around $100 for the total job..including Dextron VI fluid. I want to say thanks for the information and I will Keep you posted of the performance.

HotZ28
08-07-2009, 09:54 AM
Recent technical bulletin from ATP Inc See bulletin; 09-08 (http://www.atp-inc.com/Portals/0/tech/09-08.html) Automatic Transmission Pressure Switch Manifolds.


(http://www.atp-inc.com/tech/09-08.html)

Rsajmiera
08-29-2009, 10:43 AM
I have a ? for kgstrap....I have a 2000 Pontiac Montana with the same problem. When you added the shift kit, do you only have to remove the bottom transmission pan or did you have to remove the large cover on the back. If you have to remove the large cover it looks like a difficult project. Also, which shift kit did you buy because some of them say they do not come with gaskets? I have added many shift kits, but never in a minivan!

BNaylor
08-29-2009, 04:06 PM
I have a ? for kgstrap....I have a 2000 Pontiac Montana with the same problem. When you added the shift kit, do you only have to remove the bottom transmission pan or did you have to remove the large cover on the back. If you have to remove the large cover it looks like a difficult project. Also, which shift kit did you buy because some of them say they do not come with gaskets? I have added many shift kits, but never in a minivan!

Just the bottom pan. You will be removing the 1-2 and 2-3 shift accumulator only to add the shift kit spacers. See pic.

And welcome to AF.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC00014-1.jpg

RED REGAL
10-09-2010, 11:22 AM
Hi I realize this thread is old but I have 2000 Regal with the long shift code .I just read this thread and I have a couple of questions ?After you install the shift kit do you scan have code removed or leave the active code?Next question is the shift kit special for cars with long shift problems or will any shift kit work ?Changed tranny fluid twice,had code cleared lasted for about one hour plan to install shift kit myself.Wife`s Car

maxwedge
10-09-2010, 11:43 AM
The pwm solenoid is the usual cause for high line pressure, so will this " kit" fix this?

BNaylor
10-09-2010, 12:14 PM
Hi I realize this thread is old but I have 2000 Regal with the long shift code .I just read this thread and I have a couple of questions ?After you install the shift kit do you scan have code removed or leave the active code?Next question is the shift kit special for cars with long shift problems or will any shift kit work ?Changed tranny fluid twice,had code cleared lasted for about one hour plan to install shift kit myself.Wife`s Car

No issue with being an old thread. Welcome to AF.

The DTC will clear itself after a few drive cycles or you can discconnect the battery negative cable for a few hours. Also, this will clear the TAPS info stored in the PCM module so it can re-learn shifting patterns and your driving habits.

You can use the shift kits from ZZP, Thrasher, Transgo, etc. Some have the accumulator springs and gaskets in addition to the spacers.


The pwm solenoid is the usual cause for high line pressure, so will this " kit" fix this?


(maxwedge) Shep, not all P1811 DTCs are caused by the pressure control solenoid (PCS). It could be mechanical wear, internal hydraulic issue, clutch pack, etc. Also, even if a PCS is replaced many get the P1811 DTC all over again which is frustrating.

RED REGAL
10-09-2010, 01:26 PM
Thank you on the welcome, I`am impressed on how quickly I got a answer one of those manufacturer of these kits must me available in Canada.The local transmission shop quoted me $2800 with a 2 yr warrantyThis is a great site and keep up the good work.

enslow
10-10-2010, 04:18 PM
Thank you on the welcome, I`am impressed on how quickly I got a answer one of those manufacturer of these kits must me available in Canada.The local transmission shop quoted me $2800 with a 2 yr warrantyThis is a great site and keep up the good work.



It's pretty hard to get stuff like that here, I have found. I got mine from http://www.transmissionpartsusa.com/

Make sure they send it through USPS and NOT UPS. UPS will charge you $20 brokerage fees, $10 taxes and other fees. Canada Post will charge you just $5 clearance charges + any taxes.

RED REGAL
10-16-2010, 09:46 AM
Well its Saturday morning,I got a transgo shift kit and some dextron VI I`am going to install the kit.The kit didn`t really come with instructions but there is a paper with a picture,showing the accumulator and springs.It appears there must me 2 extra springs one red,one yellow that are not used?I will install the 5 other one`s and see how it works.Does anyone know if this will also help with the torque staying locked at hiway speeds? Before it keep unlocking even when pushing the gas pedal lightly.Forgot to mention its only 39F outside working in my driveway.

DanOttawa
10-16-2010, 10:15 AM
Hello Red Regal. I'm in Ottawa too (Bank/Hunt Club area). How cool is that. I have a 2004 Chevy Venture (4t65e) that shifts hard and has code P1811. Mister Transmission wanted to put in a rebuilt for $2700 without really doing a proper diagnosis. B&N was a little more upfront with me, but again cant seem to find someone to pinpoint the problem. No one mentioned trying a shift kit until I happen to call a Tranny shop in Toronto. Then I stumbled on this site. Lot of great info here. Many thanks to BNaylor for all the great info.
Where did you buy your shift kit. So far I tried Partsource but they never heard of it. I'm not sure if I want to try this myself or find a tranny shop that will do it.

RED REGAL
10-16-2010, 10:36 AM
Hi Danottawa I`am in the Vanier area picked my kit at Ontario automatic but they really try ed to get rebuild it completely.Read this thread right from the beginning

DanOttawa
10-16-2010, 10:41 AM
Hi Regal. I know what you mean. The same with Mister Transmission. My Venture has 114000 km on it. All they wanted to do was sell me their rebuilt sitting on the shelf. Keep me posted on how your install goes.
Also the tranny shop in Toronto mentioned to reset the adapts once the install is done. I'm not sure what that means but thought it might be useful. Do you have contact info for Ontario Automatic.

RED REGAL
10-17-2010, 07:10 AM
Good morning its Sunday and I installed the shift kit yesterday.everything went smoothly but its a messy job,hint don`t take the accumulator apart on the kitchen table you will get yelled at!The car shifts excellent from 1st to 2nd,2nd to 3rd also great but overdrive is still jumping.I know the kit doesn`t claim to fix overdrive problem,but I was hoping.When I took car on to the hiway and held the pedal down car shifted great but when engine got over 4000rpm it started missing and backfiring thru intake also check engine started flashing then light went off.I suspect maybe bad gas I`am going put some gasoline antifreeze maybe water in the gas.any suggestions appreciated!

BNaylor
10-17-2010, 07:59 AM
When I took car on to the hiway and held the pedal down car shifted great but when engine got over 4000rpm it started missing and backfiring thru intake also check engine started flashing then light went off.I suspect maybe bad gas I`am going put some gasoline antifreeze maybe water in the gas.any suggestions appreciated!

That may be a good sign as far as getting the "fishbite/chuggle" issue resolved. Meaning TCC locking and unlocking when it shouldn't. A blinking SES/CEL is a "misfire" condition. Most fishbite issues are caused by an ignition issue. Spark plugs, ignition wires, coil pack or possibly ignition control module (ICM).

What brand spark plugs to include heat range/number and ignition wires are you using?

Also, with an odb-ii scan tool you may be able to pull up some stored history DTCs like P0300 (random misfire) or P030X (specific cylinder misfire) to confirm.

RED REGAL
10-17-2010, 08:33 AM
Good morning BNaylor thanks for the help,I know the plugs are AC but I don`t Know the #.I will get one one the guys at work to check for codes and get back to you.Thanks Again

DanOttawa
10-17-2010, 09:38 AM
Is there a gasket in the accumulator that needs to be replaced??

BNaylor
10-17-2010, 09:49 AM
Is there a gasket in the accumulator that needs to be replaced??

Yes there is a cover gasket but it may not need replacing unless it comes apart or looks unserviceable but it wouldn't hurt to replace it anyways. See pic below left side.



http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC00007-1.jpg

DanOttawa
10-17-2010, 09:53 AM
Thanks for the quick reply BNaylor. Do you know if the gasket is included with the Transgo kit? Also do any of the old springs get re-installed

BNaylor
10-17-2010, 10:09 AM
Thanks for the quick reply BNaylor. Do you know if the gasket is included with the Transgo kit? Also do any of the old springs get re-installed

You're welcome. Typically the shift kits do not come with the accumulator cover gasket. The Transgo kits have what you see in the pic at link below which includes new 1-2/2-3 accumulator springs.

Transgo Shift Kit Pic (http://www.transgo.com/kit_images/SK%204T65E.jpg)

BNaylor
10-17-2010, 10:13 AM
However, one kit........the Thrasher shift kit does. See link below.

Click here (http://www.3800performance.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=TEP-SK)


BTW - This is the one I installed in my '97 Grand Prix GTP several years ago.

DanOttawa
10-17-2010, 10:23 AM
Thanks BNaylor. I'm looking at a forum at LSTech.com that has detailed photos of the install. I think you may have referenced it in an earlier post. I still not sure what happens to the old springs. Do they get re-installed or thrown out. Also someone mentioned to me that you should reset the adapts. Do you know what this means?

BNaylor
10-17-2010, 10:37 AM
Depending on the kit the old springs get replaced with the new, if provided. The TAPS means "Transmission Adaptive Shift". Basically you get the TAPS data reset so the PCM module relearns shifting based on driving conditions/habits and other parameters. This is normally done with a GM Tech 2 scan tool at the GM dealership. Also, you can remove the battery negative cable for a few hours and this may clear the old TAPs info stored. In our '99 Regal LS disconnecting the battery negative cable worked. I have the ZZP kit in this one meaning just the spacers were used. No new accumulator springs, etc. And I used Dexron VI ATF.

RED REGAL
10-17-2010, 11:43 AM
Well just got back from a 1 hour drive,I put in some gasline antifreeze engines still misses at hi rpm.But I`am liking the way the tranny shifts even the overdrive seems to be less fishbiting.I think I found the ignition problem the wires are original,bad condition.Enough for today now I`am going hunting!!

BNaylor
10-17-2010, 11:57 AM
Well just got back from a 1 hour drive,I put in some gasline antifreeze engines still misses at hi rpm.But I`am liking the way the tranny shifts even the overdrive seems to be less fishbiting.I think I found the ignition problem the wires are original,bad condition.Enough for today now I`am going hunting!!

The stock OE ignition wires are only good for up to 100K miles give or take. When you decide to replace them use the AC Delco/Delphi Premium Silicone 7mm wires. The best wires around with limited resistance and stay away from aftermarket brands.

On spark plugs I use NGK TR55IX Iridium and/or the AC Delco 41-101 Iridium. The Delco 41-101 plugs are made for GM by NGK.

Good luck!

XSaaber
10-19-2010, 05:13 PM
Great thread.

My 2003 Impala started the hard shift at about 100,000 miles, so I had it serviced a month ago. The shop stated it had never been serviced before, and since I had bought it used it didn't surprise me. The hard shift problem didn't go away, though it did improve and it showed the infamous P1811.

Was prepared to lay down the required $500 when I found this thread today. I realize it won't fix the problem if the PCS if it is bad, but isn't life an adventure.

Already ordered the shift kit and will look for Seafoam at a local store. Will check back later with results.

RED REGAL
10-23-2010, 09:12 AM
Good morning its Saturday and its been a week since I installed the kit in the accumulator.I just wanted to say the wife says to say THANK YOU to BNaylor the car runs Awesome !!You saved us spending $2800. for a rebuilt transmission.

BuickRegal1
12-14-2010, 11:45 PM
I think I may DIY also with the kit as i have same issues. One question, where is the PCS and why can I not change it also when i take the pan off? Is it just too expensive and hard to do when it could be something simpler? Thanks

maxwedge
12-15-2010, 12:43 PM
Inside the side cover of the trans not the lower pan, access requires a fair amount of disassembly.

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