Transmission slow to engage first gear when cold

[gk35]

1998 Bonneville. 219K miles.

Lately, transmission has been slow to engage first gear. Happens at initial start up and will continue after coming to a full stop, such as at a stop light. Problem goes away after about 5-10 minutes.

Fluid looks clean. No leaks, but topped it off with about 1.5 qts.

Could be the transmission control solenoid?

[harofreak00]

If it was down 1.5quarts, it has a leak somewhere. Even being down that much on fluid, it can cause slipping issues. The shift solenoids control the shifts, not the clutches. I'd try some Lucas trans fix before anything else.

[gk35]

So I've changed the trans fluid and filter. Topped it off, and found no leaks.

Shift problem still exists: On initial startup when engine is cold, trans does not go into Reverse right away. Instead, I have to move the shift lever through all gears down to "1" and back up to reverse before it engages. Once the engine warms up, there is no issue. Shifting while driving is very smooth.

Any ideas what may be the problem?

[harofreak00]

Worn clutches. Did you try some Lucas trans fix like I mentioned?

[gk35]

Worn clutches. Did you try some Lucas trans fix like I mentioned?

Well, hmm, I finally did add Lucas trans fix. And you know what? Transmission hasn't skipped a beat yet. Color me a Lucas fan from now on.

[harofreak00]

It's the only mechanic in a bottle that works in my opinion. I hope it can be a long term solution for you!

[nos4blood70]

I've been putting in a little bit of Lucas every transmission fluid service and it's kept my car happy. It used to do this BS too.