Truck takes a long warm up to go into drive (or reverse) gear

1996 GMC JIMMY
103,000 MILES • 3.3L • V6 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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ILIKEHARLEYS
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  • 1 POST
Seems like transmission fluid is so cold, it may not be circulating? It just started happening in this cold weather. Now if it goes into gear, it will not stay, and goes into neutral if I go fifty feet down the road.
Dec 17, 2017 at 9:20 AM
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PATENTED_REPAIR_PRO
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 1,853 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
It sounds to me as though the fluid seals inside the transmission are not sealing properly when cold. This can be due to old/dry seals. I would suggest you add some additive to the transmission fluid made to soften up those seals. Other than that and/or if the additive does not work or only works for a while, I am afraid to tell you the transmission will have to be rebuilt with new seals and might as well completely rebuilt it then.
Dec 17, 2017 at 9:49 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Good afternoon my name is Roy and I will assist.

From your description it sounds like the filter is clogged in the transmission.

I would start by dropping the pan, inspect for any debris in the bottom magnet and changing the filter. See if there is any improvement.

Try this and report back to us with the results.

Roy
Dec 17, 2017 at 9:50 AM
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