Hello All

The auto transmission on my 97 850 GLT (145,000) miles has been performing just fine since I got the car a year ago. However I recently experienced some strange behaviour. After exiting a freeway at about 60 mph I took my foot off the gas pedal, and the car shifted into 2nd gear (reved the engine to 4000+ rpm). Have been searching the Volvo 850 forums for an answer to why it may have decided to shift down at the wrong time. Any thoughts on whether the TCM or one of the sensors may be dying ?

Cheers
Ceri

Can you get the anomaly to happen again? Or was it just a once-off thing?
Have you ever had an ATF change? Just a change and not a flush, for now.

It only happened once so far, but have been on vacation without the car. I intend to change (not flush) the fluid next weekend

Ceri

Started the fluid change today - drained 3 1/4 qts from the transmission drain and then put the same amount of Valvoline ATF fluid in through the dipstick. Went for a quick drive - the difference in shifting smoothness was amazing ! I have read on other forums that I shouldn't change all the fluid in one session using the method - rather drive for a week and then repeat (as necessary) the (3 1/4 qt) change process until I have put 12 qts through the transmission - is this the best plan ?

Ceri

Yes, if you have never done it regularly before, then that is the best way to go.

If you drive hard (really hard) in stop-go conditions, i would suggest you install an oil-cooler as well, and do the draining on a regular annual basis.

Hi- Being that I'm Volvo newb, are there any instructions on how to drain transmission oil? I just got my first 1995 850T volvo, and don't know much about them. There are few things I have to do (timing belt), A/C doesn't blow cold, but thought draining transmission shouldn't be much of a problem.

What type of oil should I put in there? Regular ATF for Volvo?

Thanks,

If you search this forum, the backdated topics would carry the instructions on the matter.

Its quite simple, actually.

Yes, it's simple. That was the first thing I did. Will try again, maybe I missed something.

It may help to drive HARD before you change the ATF. It would help to unclog or detach the impurities from the inner parts, just before you drain them.

Which method are you planning to use?
1) Drain hole?
2) Top cooling hose (into radiator)?

I would use drain hole. The car is kinda very low to the ground, so I think I would need to raise it little. Drive onto something.

Years ago, IPD sold a kinda make-shift ramp that only goes to the 2 tyres. I pair would be used for 2 tyres. I found that very useful. But i cant seem to find it now.

If you find it anywhere near you, just remember to test the thing to be able to withstand at least 2.5tonnes of weight. The dry weight is 2 tonnes + all your fluid and whatnots you have in the car, i'd say go for the 3 tonne option.

You NEED to be safe, than sorry on this one.