HARSH ENGAGEMENT INTO REVERSE CHANGE INFO / 350 TRANS

CONDITION

Some 1981 and 1982 Oldsmobiles equipped with a 3.8L V-6 engine and a 350C transmission may experience harsh engagement when shifting into reverse. This condition does not occur when shifting into drive.

CORRECTION

1. Disassemble the transmission and remove the low reverse piston and the 17 spring low and reverse spring pack.

2. Remove every other spring from the low and reverse spring pack leaving 9 springs in place. Reassemble low and reverse clutch pack using a new low and reverse piston, part number 344212.

3. Disassemble the direct clutch assembly and install a new direct clutch piston, part number 6260197. Install cushion spring, part number 8640176, (forward clutch assembly cushion spring) in the drum against the new piston.

4. Install an extra steel clutch plate, part number 6261071, next to the cushion spring and reassemble the direct clutch pack assembly (3 steel and 3 fiber plates).

5. Install the direct clutch pressure plate and retaining ring. Using a feeler gage, check the clearance between the pressure plate and the faced plate. The clearance specification is .029" minimum to .1 12" maximum. If the clearance is less than .029", a thinner pressure plate, part number 6261349, should be used.

6. Reassemble the transmission.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.