ill_driver

So it is running in my garage finally, but I cant take it out yet..... The shifter goes all the way from park to first with no problems, and the shifter linkage appears to be shifting that "***", it just wont go out of park. I replaced the torque converter. A friend suggested that it might be the problem, but I followed installation instructions. All the way in then bolt it to the flywheel, and it will slide about an eigth of an inch back out. Any ideas are welcome.
Karl

arrio76

Is this a TH350 trans? Not comeing out of park? The torque converter has nothing to do with that. Its a linkage problem. Recheck to ensure that the linkage is still connected to the transmission. Has the pan been off the trans? Pulled the valve body? Sometimes the the little "S" linkage, that connects inside the trans to the manual valve, comes off. You would need to drop the pan to check that.

ill_driver

Yes it is a TH350. Thanks for your response! I have to go to work (a 12 hr. shift I am NOT looking forward to!), but I will tinker with that tomorrow. Thanks again,
Karl

ill_driver

I don't think it is the "S" linkage inside of the tranny because with the shifter linkage off and turning the **** with pliers I can feel the definite changes between park revers neutral and so on,
karl

arrio76

Actually I made an error in suggesting the S link, sorry. That would not cause the Park problem.
If you still feel the detents while turning the selector shaft from the side of the trans and still can not get out of Park, it has to be a defective park rod linkage. This rod connects from the detent plate to the park cam lever. The rod has a spring loaded ball end that engages the park cam lever. The end of the rod that retains the spring and ball sometims comes loose and stays under the park cam lever. In any event, your next step is to drop the trans pan and inspect the park rod linkage.

Stewart's74

I'd be willing to bet that you need to add a bunch more fluid. A converter holds quite a bit.
When I swapped out my converter, mine wouldnt shift either. I was ready to pull the friggin thing again when I decided to try the easy stuff first.
Let car idle for a few minutes and when hot, I added more fluid.
It took a few more quarts!
After that it shifted fine.

stpman

:iagree:
I had the same problem when I swapped the trans in my daughters Gran Prix

Steve :steering:

arrio76

I would agree with the above if the car can be rolled when not in the Park position. It would indicate that there may not be enough fluid in the system, and act like its still in Park/Nuetral. Put the selector in anything but Park and see if the car will roll. Check the fluid level to ensure that it on the stick (look at both sides of the stick) Oftentimes after you refill the trans you need to put the trans through the gears and recheck the level. You may have to add another quart or so.

ill_driver

Thanks guys! That is what I am trying as we speak. I put more fluid in and went to turn the key, but I left it on accessories and the battery is dead. I don't think God is on my side today :skep: Anyways when I get the battery charged and running I will update you all.
Thanks again.
Karl

Fevre

Hope you meant flexplate, just want to avoid any :confused:.

ill_driver

flywheel - flexplate potato - potaaato :thumbs:
Karl

ill_driver

It just needed some more fluid. It shifts like a charm. Thanks for all of your help guys. I sure am glad I didn't start yankin' stuff back out of there.
Thanks again,
Karl