zf transmission question

[Gordo]

Ok Im back. I recently toasted my ZF auto in my rover hybrid. I blew the first gear clutch pack. So I swapped in an old used one I had laying around. After some adjusting of the kickdown it started to shift pretty good, but still seemed late going into 4th gear, but it always shifted. Well I took it wheeling two weeks ago and it worked great, deep water, etc, but on the way back to the trailer (thank God for a trailer) it wouldnt go into 4th. I brought it home, changed the fluids again, but no luck. I have no doubt the tranny was full submerged, but this isnt the first time and the breather was connected. Anyway, the problem persists and Ive been told it could be the governor. In the mornings when its cold it also doesnt want to shift out of first, which is a tell tale sign, but I have no idea if this could cause no 4th gear as well. Once I take the Tbox out Im half way home to replacing the box, but before I commit it to maybe I should try the governor and if that doesnt work swap the valve body out with my old one. Seems like a lot of work if the trans is on its last leg anyway, but it was working and it was very clean inside when I changed the filter before installing it. Thanks Gordo

 

[MUSKYMAN]

sounds more like a gummed up valve body.

David Ashcroft has been on the board alot lately maybe he will chime in and help out with a more accurate accessment.

 

[Gordo]

Thanks man, I know the manual said to check the 3 gear upshift/downshift valves if no 4th gear, but Daves sight says possible stuck govenor for not shifting from 1st when cold. Hopefullly he will be lurking around. I'd hate to change it out again if I could make this one work. Is there a seal under the valve body? Gordo

 

[sven]

Is there a seal under the valve body? Gordo

There's a thin paper gasket there.

 

[Gordo]

Ok thanks for letting me know. I will see if I can find a new one without buying a whole rebuild kit, unless i get lucky enough not to damage it... Im thinking I can swap them in the truck if I remove the pan right? Thanks again.

 

[justinhaaga]

if it's a gummed up valve body you could swap your old one on the 'newer' tranny. Can do this without dropping the tranny.

i had similar problems on my 96 towards the end. I added a couple drops of brake fluid to it and ran it for 50 miles or so, drain and repeated a few times, then the 3rd time changed the filter and fluid with all ATF. It worked for me.

do at your own risk, but if it's a questionable tranny and you can risk it might be worth a shot if it's a gummed up valve body.

 

[Gordo]

Thanks man. Ive got nothing to lose I guess! Worried slightly the old body might be clogged too after blowing a clutch, but worth a shot. Damn tempted to toss a 5spd in there but it aint in the cards right now. Gordo