Which additive do I put in my transmission?

Question

I have a 1987 Olds 98. Over the last month when the weather is cold in the morning(about 20-35 degrees) I have been having some transmission problems. When I start the car in the morning for the first time and start driving, it will not change gears for about a couple of minutes. It just stays in the first gear and doesn't shift until, apparently, it has warmed up a bit. It doesn't have a problem shifting. It just doesn't change gears until warmed up. After a couple of minutes of driving, it starts working ok and I have no other problems until the next morning when I start off cold again.

Several additives have been suggested. A friend suggested Trans-X Stop Leak & Tune-Up and my local parts store recommended Lucas Transmission Fix.

What should I use? Any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks

HLS · Accepted Answer

Most people will tell you not to use any additives. Have you changed the filter and fluid lately (ever.....?)

The symptoms you describe are typical of low internal pressure sometimes from a worn front pump. It can also be overly viscous transmission goop especially in cold weather. The cold weather accentuates this symptom.

AZGuy · Answer

I'd try the TransX.  Most likey your internal seals have enough wearthat when they the transmission is really cold in the mornings thoseseals aren't sealing.  No seal means the clutches don't build uppressure when they are told to engage.  No pressure, no shift.  Afteryou drive a few miles and the seals warm up they seal again and thenit will shift.  The TransX will soften and swell the seals a littlebit making them seal better.  I've used TransX and other similaradditives in transmissions many times and none of them have evercaused a problem and many times they have helped, sometimessignificantly.--Elbridge Gerry, of Massachusetts:"What, sir, is the use of militia?  It is to prevent theestablishment of a standing army, the bane of liberty.  . .Whenever Government means to invade the rights and liberties ofthe people, they always attempt to destroy the militia, in orderto raise a standing army upon its ruins."  -- Debate, U.S.  Houseof Representatives, August 17, 1789

Which additive do I put in my transmission?

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