1-2 shift firmness

[theCATman]

I had this in the trans section for almost two weeks & no reply. So, I'm gonna post here now since the general section seems to get alot more traffic.

I am curious if there is anything I can do to firm up my 1-2 shift. Under light throttle it's firm, not harsh, but firm. Anything 1/2 throttle and up it's soft for some reason. It doesn't seem to slip at all, you just don't "feel" the shift.

2-3 & 3/4 are very crisp at all throttle inputs.

Specs as I know, are... stock 200 (less than 5,000 miles on rebuild) 2,400 stall and a B&M shiftkit.

Any help/suggestions is greatly appreciated.

 

[standupjskiguy]

Just a shot in the dark.
Check the fluid level. If it moves to the back of the pan under the strong acceleration of 1/2 throttle in 1st gear, you may lose some pressure,
it may soften the shift due to a lower trans pressure.
Then the fluid moves back forward in 2nd and third because the force isn't as great.
Be sure to let the fluid settle awhile before checking because if it is low it can foam and give a false reading on the dipstick.

 

[mikestertwo]

A lot depends on what band was used, the condition of the direct clutch drum, and what kind of mods if any done to the 2nd gear feed circuit, accumulator, and intermediate servo.

 

[theCATman]

A lot depends on what band was used, the condition of the direct clutch drum, and what kind of mods if any done to the 2nd gear feed circuit, accumulator, and intermediate servo.

So... in other words, you're saying without really tearing it down for no reason, just live with it the way it is.