95 Neon auto transmission trouble when cold

TheSharkMan · 10-31-2005, 05:28 PM

Our 1995 Neon's automatic tranny slips during the first two or three shifts after a cold start. Once it warms up even a little bit it's fine.

Any suggestions?

(Thanks in advance.)

das2123 · 10-31-2005, 05:42 PM

First check your fluid level...if it's low, then top off with Mopar ATF+3 fluid. Do not use Dexron or anything else. The Chrysler trannies are real sensitive and the friction modifiers in Mopar far exceed other fluids. Redline is suitable substitute.

After that tighten and adjust your kickdown band. If it has never been done, then you should. To tighten your kickdown band here you go:

The kickdown band adjustment screw and locknut is located at the top left side of your transmission. Remove the battery and the tray, then detach the fuse box and move it out of the way. Loosen the locknut(the smaller nut, the first nut) about five turns until the adjusting screw turns freely. Then tighten the adjusting screw to (95 ATX) 72 in-lbs, then back off 2 and a half turns or (96 and higher ATX) 72 in-lbs, then back off 2 and a quarter turns. While holding the screw in place, tighten the locknut to 35 ft-lbs. That takes care of your kickdown band!

TheSharkMan · 10-31-2005, 05:58 PM

Thanks for the reply! I'll try those suggestions and see how it goes.

das2123 · 10-31-2005, 07:02 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheSharkMan

Thanks for the reply! I'll try those suggestions and see how it goes.

I forgot to mention you can also use Mopar ATF+4. These are dealer fluids and bit expensive, but they can and will keep your tranny shifting smooth for a long time.

TheSharkMan · 11-01-2005, 10:58 AM

We just bought this car used at an independent dealer a few months ago, so there's no telling what's in the tranny right now.

Maybe a change of fluid and filter would be in order? (I read in another thread here that a flush is not recommended.)

das2123 · 11-01-2005, 11:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheSharkMan

Maybe a change of fluid and filter would be in order? (I read in another thread here that a flush is not recommended.)

That could definitely help...I wouldn't flush it, just drain and put the correct fluid in there.

TheSharkMan · 11-10-2005, 03:03 PM

Cool.

I've never done this before. Is there a procedure? Is there a filter that can (or should) be changed?

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