The transmission on my '97 3.0 CL slips when shifting from first to second when cold and has a hard, delayed downshift to first when stopping. It behaves normally after warming up.

A local transmission shop told me that this was symptomatic of hardened rubber seals in the transmission and quoted $2500 for replacing all rubber, solenoids, etc.

Does this sound like a reasonable diagonsis and price?

I recall hearing about additives that are suposed to soften rubber seals in transmissions. Does anyone have any experience with these? Is there any downside to trying one?

Thanks in advance for your help and suggestions.

Joel

 

I would start by replacing the transmission pump inlet screen and refilling w/ Honda ATF Z71. I don't know if the 3CL has a mechanical throttle cable link, but if yes then the adjustment should be checked. This can sometimes cause hard shifts.

After above you might consider some of the automatic transmission additives. Lubegard additives are recommended by some pros on www.batauto.com.

good luck