🚀 go-pugleaf

> /* ---------- "harsh transmission engagement" ---------- */
>   The automatic transmission of my '77 Plymouth Volare is producing a 
> heavy thump when shifted from Neutral to either Reverse or Drive.
> The harshness of the transmission engagement is roughly proportional to
> the idling speed. The thump can jolt the car at cold idle speed (1400 rpm),
> but is tolerable at hot idle (700 rpm). The level and quality of the 
> transmission fluid has been checked out fine, the idle speeds are 
> also alright.  Other than the stated problem the trasmission works fine
> (no delay, no slippage). I would appreciate any pointer
> to the probable cause of the problem. Thanks.
> 
Check your universal joints, if they're loose (loose bearings) they could
cause the `thump' you describe.  The thump would be proportional to the
engine speed.  An easy way to check it out is to reach under the car
and twist the crank shaft (make sure the car is not running and that it
is in Park).  If there is play (slop) at either the front or rear U-joint,
I would suggest that both joints be replaced at the same time.

If it's not the universal joints, you might want to also check the motor
mounts (loose or broken), however, this is more of a wild guess.

		Good Luck.

    Scott @ {convex!smu, rice, texsun}!tilde!tifsie!sat