[bentley429]

Have a th400 TCI manual reverse VB with a brake. Has about 200 street miles on it, no passes and very few street passes. Its developed a issue, while driving normal, under a load, or WOT shifting from 1st to 2nd it does not go into 2nd gear. Feels like its in neutral almost and just revs to the limiter, when I shift into 3rd it goes into gear. Now, I checked out the shifter cable all seems well goes into gear like its supposed to. Neutral and reverse work fine, as does the transbrake. The trans also seems to make a howl noise when I am on the throttle which it has done since it was fresh which I believe could be from the paper filter thats in it. If it helps any it also has a TCI deep pan and a b&m cooler.

 

[chris718]

It sounds like the intermediate sprag has flipped or rolled.This is a common occurance with the design of their valve body.I feel it is because of the line pressure they use.However information here has surfaced regarding the outer diameter of the inner race being too small and causing this as well.Obviously the od of the race being too small can cause the sprag too roll but in my opinion it needs to be .002" plus smaller for this to be a cause.The sprag could tolerate an outer race diameter a few thousandths larger than what is considered the optimum spec discussed here and still function well without overheating or being in danger.Either way you need to remove the pump and drums and inspect the sprag.Alsolook at reducing line pressure by installing a stock pressure regulator spring.If you need furthrt help you can phone me at the shop on Monday.

 

[bentley429]

Thanks for the info. Another bit of information is, on the street while testing the brake it would blow the tires off in 1st, then 2nd. Last time I drove it when 2nd still worked 2nd gear was a dog coming off the brake. So while thinking of that id does sound like the sprag has flipped correct? Either way I am going to pull the trans either today or tomorrow.

 

[1FASTV6]

I believe I am having this same problem. How much do you think I am looking to get it repaired if I were to take it to a local shop?

 

[Jp outlaw]

If you've done much tire spinning going from 1st to 2nd, then yes, the sprag is likely dead.

 

[Procharged-Z]

If you've done much tire spinning going from 1st to 2nd, then yes, the sprag is likely dead.

+ On That .. It has happen to me many times .. It's Usually a quick fix if you catch it quick ...