73' 280... not shifting past 2nd

[danwatt]

The 280's tranny (722.1xx I believe) is not shifting past second at all. Shifts from first to second fine, but won't shift into third at all. Messed around with linkage adjustments to no avail. Changed the fluid out and put a quart of trans-x in with the new fluid, no difference. Yes it is at the correct level.

I've done plenty of work on the 722.3xx tranny, does this have similar problem areas such as the k1 spring and b2 piston? Or is it time for a rebuild/new tranny?

[danwatt]

just tried disconnecting the kickdown switch, no difference. Argh.

[JMURiz]

Could it be that you are starting in 2nd....I think it's typical for our cars to start in 2nd unless you really stomp on the gas (only then will they start in 1st gear).

I'm a newbie myself, perhaps a more experienced member can verify this.

[Mike D]

Dan,

On the '73 280, transmission shifts are also controlled by the rod going across the top of the engine. Check and make sure it is adjusted properly.

Acc. linkage at full rest (low idle) position, top rod disconnected. Make sure the rod leading down to the tranny has movement and is not in a bind with anything. The adjustment is, should be zero play/loose fit using the long rod and it's ball sockets. The rod has sliding ends controlled by clamp bolts.

[danwatt]

I've adjusted it to each extreme and even driven with it disconnected... no difference. 1st - 2nd (yes it's definetly 1st to second) is perfectly fine, but it won't shift to third. It shifts into reverse, neutral, and park perfectly fine. I suspect that the filter may be clogged, already ordered a new one.

I seem to remember that on the 722.3 the K1 spring causes similar problems as to what I'm experiencing.... do the 722.1's have something similar that can be replaced?

[danwatt]

Well, finally got around to changing the filter last night... When I dropped the oil pan I found a couple rather large (2 inches or so) pieces of metal bands. Cleaned it out, replaced filter anyway and took for a test drive... no difference. So it looks like it's time for a new tranny. Found somebody in Fresno selling used but working trannys for $175, I might just make the drive up there to pick one up. Don't have time to rebuild it and don't really have the money for a rebuilt... maybe I can wait for the tax return and get one from Sun Valley.

I'd really like to put a four speed in there, but it's the girlfriend's car and she just can't be bothered.

[danwatt]

Also, what would be the best tranny to get for a more efficient gearing ratio? I don't mind sacrificing a little off the line performance. Perhaps a w123 280e tranny?