1961 Chevy Impala why is my transmission not going to secon

59CHEVY

MEMBER
1961 CHEVROLET IMPALA
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
110,000 MILES

I have a 59 chevy that has a 305 engine and a 400 transmission, while driving it, it does not want to go to second gear and I can not drive faster then 15 mph. Any idea why it's doing this. Thanks

Sunday, October 4th, 2009 AT 9:21 PM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Have you serviced it? If not, what condition is the fluid in? Finally, if it is clean and has a new filter, check the modulator on the side of the trans. Remove the vacuum line and check to see if ATF is getting into it. If so, replace it. If it is ok, chances are the valve body needs cleaned.

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Monday, October 5th, 2009 AT 7:53 AM

59CHEVY

MEMBER
5 POSTS

After putting a new modulator it goes to second a little rough and just fine to third. Thanks for the info

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Sunday, October 18th, 2009 AT 12:06 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Glad it helped. I wish all transmissions were that easy to work on and diagnose. If it is shifting hard, make sure the vacuum line going to the modulator isn't leaking and is in good condition. I have actually had cars burning oil and no one could figure out why. I have seen the modulator go bad, and the engine (vacuum) would suck ATF into the intake and then burn it.
Thanks for using 2carpros. Com, and let us know if you have questions in the future.

Joe

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Sunday, October 18th, 2009 AT 12:21 AM