Some 1985-1987 DeVilles and Fleetwoods, and 1986-1987 Eldorados and Sevilles may experience a consistently harsh 1-2 shift condition at any throttle angle and any altitude.
This harsh shift condition may be caused by a blocked or partially drilled 2nd clutch feed passage in the case.
To repair this condition inspect the 2nd feed passage for blockage or incomplete drilling operation. To perform this inspection, remove the transaxle oil pan, filter, accumulator cover (with feed pipes and retainer), accumulator cover spacer plate, and gaskets (Figure 1). Inspect the 2nd clutch passage by measuring the depth of the hole, which should be a minimum of 72mm (2-13/16") as shown in Figures 2 and 3. If the 2nd clutch passage is properly drilled, refer to Section 7A1 of the appropriate Service Information Manual for possible causes of a harsh 1-2 shift.
If the passage is not properly drilled:
1. Remove the transaxle from the vehicle and disassemble components up to and including the channel plate.
2. Mark an 8.5mm (21/64") drill bit at 72mm (2-13/16") from the end using a drill stop or some other acceptable method. From the oil pan side of the case, finish drilling the 2nd clutch passage to the proper depth as marked on the drill bit.
3. Remove metal chips caused by drilling, and thoroughly flush the repaired case passages with clean solvent.
4. Reassemble the transaxle.
For warranty purposes, use Labor Operation T6260 at 5.5 hours for DeVilles and Fleetwoods and 6.2 hours for Eldorados and Sevilles.
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.