IS My auto tranny finally giving up the ghost?

[sciroccos at earthlink.net (Jim Ruffi)]

All my experiences have been bad, unfortunately.  I've changed a few, but
never had one apart.  All I can say is that once the friction material
starts accumulating in the strainer, your trans goes downhill pretty
rapidly.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Neptuno" <neptunonc@yahoo.com>
To: "Scirocco-L" <scirocco-l@scirocco.org>
Sent: Wednesday, May 03, 2006 11:34 AM
Subject: IS My auto tranny finally giving up the ghost?


> Problem
>   Yesterday I got into the car and noticed that the transmission seem to
be slipping. I live on a street with a hill and was facing the top of the
hill (going up it). I also noticed that a crunchy sound from the tranny as
it engaged the next gear (2nd) a lag was felt then it feel into gear.
> Last night while driving home a similar thing happened where while stopped
at a hill the tranny felt like it was slipping and then engaged. The problem
is most noticeable on grades rather than flat suffices, but there is still a
hint of it on any surface.   I have searched the FAQ, but there is a lack of
information. It is mostly info relating to Tips, and 4spd autos.   Can
someone on the know help me?   Things I have checked.   The fluid seems Fine
in color and amount. Nice reddish color with not much stink.   Visually it
looks dry at the pan with no apparent leaks.   Things I have bought and plan
to do   Got a new pan gasket set with strainer and gaskets
> http://busdepot.com/images/parts/010398009.jpg
>
>   Some Valvoline High millage Dextron III
>   http://www.midwayautosupply.com/images/valvoline/atf_3X.jpg
>
>   I was going to replace the strainer and pan gasket and fill it up with
new fluid and see if that does the trick, but I am uncertain about this. I
had never messed with the auto trannies before so it makes me worried not to
know what to expect that is why I am asking you all for input.  I know some
of you rag me for keeping Rodolfo an Automatic, but  I really need some help
on this one. Otherwise, I dont think I will make it to Cincy this year. Does
anyone have expirience with this type of Box?     Thanks,
> El Tony
>