Reverse Went Out In Transmission, Like Hitting A Brick Wall

[Hurricane Bob]

I have a 1997 Chevy Astro Mini Conversion Van with 222,243 mi. A couple of months ago, the transmission started shifting hard from first to second gear, after being driven at a speed of 55+ for at least an hour. After changing the screen, the problem seemed to have been corrected, until today.

 

My wife was slowly backing up when, simultaneously, she heard a loud noise and the van stopped with enough force to make her think that she had backed into something solid. After finding nothing behind her, she shifted again into reverse, only to roll forward, the van acting as if in neutral.

 

The van will move forward in any of the forward gears, but the shift into a higher gear is a long time in coming, sluggish, and achievable only when you let off of the accelerator.

 

Transmission number; GMPT 4L60E 33

 

I appreciate any advice you have to offer or just an idea of where to start.

 

Thank you.

[Hurricane Bob]

[omegafiler]

Wow, that's a lot of miles. But it sounds like it just needs a rebuild. I'd take it to a reputable trans shop in your area and get an estimate. They might even have a 4l60E rebuilt trans ready to go. Just depends on which is cheaper of course.

[ryank1]

The reaction sun shell most likely broke. It is a very common failure on 4L60E's and will cause loss of reverse. With the milage on the unit it will need replacement or at least a soft overhaul and replacement of the sunshell and 2-4 band.

[Hurricane Bob]

Thanks for the help! Found a used one for 550. Warranty one month or 1000 miles. Probably take that unless something better pops up. Thanks again.