Starting in overdrive

[keith reed]

My VH has a VP V8 4 speed auto. It starts in park ok, wont start in neutral but will start in overdrive. Normally I start in park so it isn't a problem. It won't start in any other gear. Anyone any idea what the cure is and is it common?

 

[Lex]

My VH has a VP V8 4 speed auto. It starts in park ok, wont start in neutral but will start in overdrive. Normally I start in park so it isn't a problem. It won't start in any other gear. Anyone any idea what the cure is and is it common?

Have you looked underneath at the shift linkage. Bolt may have come loose?

Low tranny fluid?

 

[keith reed]

Have you looked underneath at the shift linkage. Bolt may have come loose?

Low tranny fluid?

IT has been like it since I had the motor put in about 1999 or thereabouts. The auto was rebuilt a few years ago after someone at a garage decided to take it for a spin.

 

[Immortality]

Shifter out of adjustment?

Can you select right down to first gear?

 

[keith reed]

Shifter out of adjustment?

Can you select right down to first gear?

I don't know, I,ve never tried. Will tomorrow.

 

[_R_J_K_]

So what does the car do when you start it in overdrive? Does it move forward? Does it accelerate?

 

[keith reed]

Yes it does. The car would take off like it would normally do if I put it drive after starting. It's never been an issue because It was only by mistake that it happens as I always start in park. However it has only happened twice in the 23-24 years that the engine and auto have been in the car.. I will ask a transmission place today and see what they have to say.

 

[Lex]

Yes it does. The car would take off like it would normally do if I put it drive after starting. It's never been an issue because It was only by mistake that it happens as I always start in park. However it has only happened twice in the 23-24 years that the engine and auto have been in the car.. I will ask a transmission place today and see what they have to say.

That sounds like the neutral safety switch? When working correctly will only allow you to start in neutral or park.

 

[Pollushon]

As above, that will likely be your trans inhibitor switch

 

[keith reed]

As above, that will likely be your trans inhibitor switch

Thanks Lex and Pollushon. I was talking to my neighbour (ex diesel fitter) and he was of the same opinion.