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Shifting problems

B

bonnevillain

New member
Hello all, I have a 2002 Pontiac Bonneville with the non-HD transmission (125k on it)
My shifts seem to be getting sloppier, mushier, and slower. I used to be able to feel them, nice and quick. I changed the fluid a couple months ago, it is still red and full. I also have the line pressure increased in my PCM (custom tuned) but the shifts still feel really bad. At higher RPMs, it seems to hesitate or hunt before shifting, and at WOT the transmission shudders when shifting. I know something is not right, but does this mean i will be in need of a new transmission soon? I found one in a local yard with 30k on it for $350.. I will be swapping a used one in most likely, i cannot afford a $1000+ rebuild.

Thanks,

Ryan
 


Since it is gradually getting worse than you are probably best off getting a rebuild or replacing it, but if you are replacing it with a used one you must make sure it is compatible with your car as there are a number of different electrical and gear ratio combinations available amongst the years. Do you have access to a scan tool to check out a few things or would you have to take it in to a shop to get checked out? A failing pressure control solenoid will definately cause what you have going on but not typically with some other side effects but the only way to see what is going on is with a trans pressure gauge and a scan tool. Also if your maf sensor is dirty from old age or if you have a K&N style oiled air filter that can cause the maf sensor to prematurely get dirty and this can directly effect shift pressure and will be most evident at WOT.
 
yes, i am aware of the differences. I am looking at one out of a 2002 Park Avenue with 30k miles, as i understand it the only difference is the Torque converter, which i would swap from my car, assuming it looks OK. to replace the PCS the trans has to come out anyways doesn't it? after that much work, i might as well swap in a cheap one. I do have a scangauge (aeroforce mounted inside). No codes since this has started, none stored either.

I do have an oiled K&N filter, but the MAF has those stupid security torx bolts on it, and i don't have the tools to get them out. I did clean it a while back when i had the throttle body off though. I suppose i could try to check that.
 
While you have it out, I'd go ahead and at least replace the PCS. I'd probably do them all as long as I was in there. Help you get the most out of that trans.
 
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