'94 SC400 Transmission Problem
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Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 90
Likes: 2
From: Florida
'94 SC400 Transmission Problem
Hey guys, recently I've been experiencing problems with my SC delaying intitially shifting into drive when the car is cold (well, cold at least for Miami!). I tried changing the tranny fluid (went through 4 cycles over several weeks). I did not do a flush, as I have read that with 207K miles, I could create even more problems. Today when I was leaving work it must have taken at least 5 seconds to go into drive. It always goes right into reverse and always shifts fine, but it just has that hesitation when it's cold. Hitting the gas just makes the engine rev as if it were in neutral. My local Lexus repair shop says that the transmission is simply wearing out and I'm experiencing low line pressure. Has anyone else had this problem? Could it be a valve body problem? A replacement tranny is over $3K, which I don't want to pour into a car this old. I can probably pick up a used tranny, but I don't want to do that if there is an easy fix. Please HELP!!!!!!!!!
Lexus Test Driver
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 1,164
Likes: 2
From: Australia
Could be the lines... but than it could also be a heap of other problems.. the only way you can tell, is by opening up the tranny. Once you do that you will know. It's probably your clutches etc wearing, not just the lines.
I'd suggest getting a second hand transmission from somewhere, it's cheaper, and hopefully it'll last at least... 50k. That's if you don't want to put 3k into paying for a re-built tranny. And if the second hand tranny brakes.. so what, spend another $300 and put another in haha.
I'd suggest getting a second hand transmission from somewhere, it's cheaper, and hopefully it'll last at least... 50k. That's if you don't want to put 3k into paying for a re-built tranny. And if the second hand tranny brakes.. so what, spend another $300 and put another in haha.
Driver
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 100
Likes: 0
From: TN
Try putting in some Lucas Transmission fix. If that doesn't do anything, shell out some cash and get it looked by a transmission shop, don't go to a regular mechanic. Because they'll look at it, tell you to go to a tranny shop, and then give you a bill for $50. Yeah, I've been there.
Sounds like its time for a rebuild or a ne-used unit.
From what your saying the clutches inside the trans are more then likely worn which is causing the low line pressure and delay in engagement.
From what your saying the clutches inside the trans are more then likely worn which is causing the low line pressure and delay in engagement.
Thread Starter
Rookie
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 90
Likes: 2
From: Florida
Yeah --- I have a feeling it might be just wearing out. This transmission has by far lasted longer than any other I've had. It's just so weird that it shifts perfectly. Just that pause going into drive (reverse is fine) when it's cold. I guess I could try an additive, but I think they work by softening/swelling the seals in the transmission, so I've been reluctant to try them. Oh well, I'll keep everyone posted ...
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