As I understand it....

Our transmissions are suppose to shift into 2nd when we are at a dead stop to avoid creeping forward. That as soon as you even slightly touch the accelerator (or release the brake), it goes into first without any noticeable actions. That it should begin its driveoff in first.

In my case I don't think it is linkage, vacuum or cable adjustment. I think it is either gummed up or has a problem with the valve body. Being that it is quick to go into drive or reverse, does not leak and at times shifts correctly, the issue must be something that controls an action rather than a part that carries out an action. So the 'brain" seems to be confused. Now I suppose the pump might be weak, however I find that a difficult conclusion as the 3rd to 4th and 4th to 3rd is fine.

Who knows, it could be as simple as a fluid change which I am planning to do next. I read on this forum about Trans-X, so I am going to toss some of that in as well.

I think transmissions are those things we have in our cars and are use to them working or not. When not, they are rebuilt. Being a bit older and wiser, I find that a blanket cure that is simular to rebuilding an engine because it is running rough. Sure a rebuilt motor will take care of the problem, however it might have only been a valve adjustment. So I am in this to uncover the mystery of it all and hope to fix what is not working rather than replace the whole thing cause it's spooky in there!

Don

Thanks for the suggestions and keep um coming!

__________________
1980 300TD-T (82 Turbo and Trans) 159,000 Miles "Jackie-O"
1983 300SD 272,000 Miles "Aristotle"
1987 Jeep Wagoneer Limited - keeps the MB's off the ice and out of the snow
1994 BMW 530it