I have simply not worked on auto tranny's in 3rd gen Max's. I have the FSM and have run through the diagnostic procedures, but I need some feedback before I go further (If I go further!).

Again, '90 VG auto with the black pan on top. Transmission will shift via the lever, through the settings, P - R - N - D - 2 - 1 whatever. I have verified that the shifter is moving the linkage at the transmission. However, the front tires will not move in any gear settings, forward or reverse. Additionally, it does not "feel" like the transmission is engaging when placed into any drive/reverse gears. It does nothing. Yes, it is full of fluid.

I have checked the power setting system per the FSM, it operates without problems.

I have checked the axles to make sure they are in the tranny. As best I can tell they are. Also, if I turn one side, the other spins in the opposite direction when in a drive gear. In park, wheels will not move.

I have checked the forward oil pressure (via the access port at the top of the tranny). The pressure is exactly in spec (60psi at idle and increases beyond 100psi as rpm's are increased - sorry, my guage could only read up to 100psi).

I cannot do a stall test becuase the tranny won't engage. The FSM subsequently indicates it could be a few things, one being the torque converter.

Do torque converters typically go bad in these cars? Any helpful input would be much appreciated in diagnosing this. If it is as simple as a torque converter, I think I have one of those. BTW, is there any way to differentiate a VE vs VG torque converter?

 

sounds like a bad t/c to me.. or a broken main shaft in the trans....Not sure on the vg/ve t/c differences..


you gotta veegee dizzy laying around chris?

 

**** i told you i have one

 

My transmission went bad last year and I had it rebuilt, it had different symptoms but according to the shop the torque converter was bent (among other things), but it did have 220,000 on it.

 

I just recently had the same problem. Had the transmission rebuilt. Torque Converter was among one of the parts replaced. Apparantly it's common for these model Maximas and Stanzas.

 

Greeny: Sorry, but not a good one. I tossed it becuase when I spun it, it sounded grainy/grinding. I'm trying to go through my stuff and verify what I've got is good as I install my new metal shelves.

You don't have a VG torque converter do you?

I've got one, but I swear it's for a VE. I really don't want to pull this tranny! UURRgh!

Anyone have a working VG auto tranny local (East TN) with TC? I really just don't need/want another project. But, if someone can offer up a good deal on a tranny, I suppose I'm back in the garage again. The yard projects can wait I guess.

OT: BTW, anyone got a transfer case for an '86 Jeep Commanche? That one part would help eliminate my yard projects!

 

i have a vg tc that you can have for just the cost of shipping b/c i cannot verify if it works or not. my a/t died (lost all power to all gears) but i'm not sure if it was the tc or the fluid pump that died. i'm in middle NC but you can have it for just shipping if you want to toss it in and see if it fixes the problem (which if it does it'll be a pretty good deal for you haha)

 

We need to hit the k-town pull-a-part this friday chris..

 

Wayne: How much would the Knox pullapart charge. I'm available Friday/tomorrow to be there, I'm off.

Caped: Where in NC are you. It is also possible to drive and pick it up. I'm on vacation for the next week and hope to finish up some projects which have been lingering. This being one. But, I do wonder too if it was the pump or tc which was your issue. Let me see if I can pick one up locally and I'll get back with you.

 

TORQUE CONVERTER $21.39 with warranty add $3.14 without core add $5.08

 

ive done 2 torque converters that the input shaft stripped out the converter side splines
1. a 90 stanza and 2. my old 92 gxe
(once you drip out the last bit of fluid this can be seen with a light)
if replacing the input shaft t\c lockup o-ring get a nissan one because they are round shaped but made from square ring material

see ...ve's arent powerful enough to strip a converter

 

I was on my way to work yesterday when i stopped at a light and went to pull off when i felt my car wasnt pulling light it should could it be that myy tranny is slipping? and another thing I went to put in something called Trans-X and a lil high mile tranny fluid and it ran good and smooth. How do I change my own tran fluid? and would it be a good idea to change it i havent had it changed since i got the car at 240k im around 255k now