No Reverse

[slowhand]

Hello all I am new to this forum looks like a great place to get info on my 1978 Buick Regal it has the 3.8 V6 automaic trans that has a problem with going into reverse what do I need to do is it simple to fix or is it difficult any help would be appreciated thanks steve

 

[LOT]

???

Does it act the same in manual 1 ?

 

[slowhand]

yes when i shift into reverse it does nothing all forward gears work fine

 

[slowhand]

I am sorry about the year of my Regal it is a 1987 I get it mixed up with my 78 caprice.

 

[KL Mallender]

Hello slowhand and welcome to TurboBuick.com.
If you Regal is a turbo model it should have the 200-4R (4 speed) trans,
If it is carbed 3.8 or 5.0 it could have either the 200c(3 speed) or the 200-4R.
What LOT mentioned is reguarding manual Low (L1) operation, if you drive the car down the street in 2nd up to 30-35 mph and pull shifter into L1 you should feel it downshift and slow the car with engine, if it does not your problem is most likely in the Low/Reverse clutch, test driving car to see what works and what doesn't is first step in diagnoisis, good luck and keep us informed on your progress.

Kevin.

 

[slowhand]

Okay it does not so it is the the clutch deal is that exspensive to fix or can I do it myself to save a little and it is the 3.8 carb engine I would like to get it turbo charged but first I want to get my tranny going.thanks

 

[KL Mallender]

Well, that points the trouble to Low/Reverse clutch assembly, to fix problem it will require transmission removal and rebuilding the unit as a whole.
Depending on your mechanical skills will dictate if this is something you want or are prepared to do, if you are unsure of rebuilding it yourself, I would reccomend that you contact one of the member/vendors in your area that will steer you in the correct repairs your car requires, you can R&R the transmission and send it to them if you prefer. Check your option decal on inside of trunk lid for trans identification (provided it hasen't been swapped out for different unit),
MV9 is 200c 3 speed, MW9 is 200-4R 4 speed. Information is available for rebuilding it yourself once you ID unit model.

Kevin.

 

[chris718]

KEVIN,I want to speak to you.If you can call me at 718 807 8110 any time this evening.thanks

 

[slowhand]

Thanks Kevin and thanks Lot that helps me to figure out where I go from here I will check prices on parts and techs in my area.thanks again Steve