Transmission picks up speed, but it will not shift?

1995 HONDA CIVIC
140,000 MILES • 1.5L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
JOSHWILSON93
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
My engine blew up and I got a new motor and put it in myself. I had to separate the transmission also and for some reason I don't know why I took the flywheel off and the converter out. i got it all put back together and I sat there and went through all the gears for about 10-15 minutes, and it engages into all the gears just fine, but when I go to accelerate it goes and picks up speed but it won't shift unless I let off the gas but it sounds like it is slipping at the same time. If I shift the transmission into reverse, it does just fine, it doesn't make that slipping sound. What could I have done wrong when putting the flywheel back on and setting the flywheel and the converter back in the transmission? Please help.
Oct 12, 2022 at 10:45 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,267 POSTS
When you installed the engine did you make sure the torque converter was in all the way? What happens sometimes is the torque converter will slip out of the transmission one step out of three and then when you install the engine it damages the front pump of the transmission.

Here is video that shows what I am talking about:

https://youtu.be/ZC7xHVMKLRw

If the torque converter is okay, please check the fluid level and the throttle valve transmission cable, it might be too loose. Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.
Oct 13, 2022 at 3:29 AM
Avatar
JOSHWILSON93
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes, I noticed when I was trying to mate the transmission with the motor the converter tried sliding out but I'm almost 100% sure I turned it until it went back in place and then was able to slowly jack the transmission back up and bolt the motor and transmission back together. Okay, the Throttle Valve Cable which one is that because there are two cables, correct?
Oct 13, 2022 at 4:53 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,267 POSTS
Yep, one cable will come from the firewall which is attached to your throttle pedal and the other will go down to the transmission. You want to tighten the cable adjustment.
Oct 15, 2022 at 4:31 AM
Avatar
JOSHWILSON93
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Okay thank you when I go over to mess with it again, I will let you know if it gets fixed or not with my luck, I will have to drop the trans... Also, another question I have a Check engine light code p0141 ordered a new one from eBay put it and the new seal on and it is still throwing the same Check engine light code.
Oct 17, 2022 at 5:52 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,267 POSTS
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit Malfunction (Bank 1 Sensor 2). this is the sensor behind the catalytic converter. Let me know what happens with the transmission.
Oct 18, 2022 at 3:23 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.