Transmission thunk!

[rain406]

I have an 89 Auto, and lately when I shift from park or neutral, into reverse, I get a loud clunk, along with a little jerk, from presumably the transmission.

The fluid level is fine, though it hasn't been changed in a year I think.

Is my transmission soon to be on the fritz?

[mechanicaldj]

check the transmission mounts to the body and engine to body mount too

[Festiva_tunner]

when was the last time you checked your valves?

[quaddawg]

when was the last time you checked your valves?

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[miami man]

check the valves? that is a new one on me.

[rain406]

-Good point about checking the mounts, I'll see if I can check them out.

-Valves? Yeah, I'm clueless on that one.

There's a another bit to add to this mystery, though. When in reverse, each time I tap the gas, it gives another loud *clunk* from the transmission, but it seems to work fine. If I hold down the gas pedal and go in reverse it won't do it, only each time I commence the pressing of the gas pedal. Any ideas???

[kzbill]

sounds like a mount to me too. if the mount is the same as on the 5 spd. I have taken many festivas apart and not found a good rear trans mount in any of them.

[25Horseplay]

Open the hood and hold the brake while giving it gas watch to see if the engine moves. If it moves alot then you probably have a broken mount.

[rain406]

I just checked...you're right, guys! Thanks a lot.

So, what's the best way of fixing this problem?

[FB71]

replace the mounts!

[dahodges]

Don't know if you can get all new mounts for a auto. If you can let us know.

[25Horseplay]

I believe Rock auto has then, atleast last time I checked they did.

[rain406]

To install 'em, could I just use a cherry picker to hold up the engine, unbolt the old mounts and bolt in the new ones? Or does the engine have to be taken out to get to them?

[kzbill]

yes and no. hold motor up, take crossmember down. if I remember right.

[rain406]

Apparently FestivaMotorsport have the mounts. They said the front mounts are the same, and there's only 1 rear mount with the automatic.

The guy at FM mentioned I should check my differential bearings. What do you guys think, is it worth it getting someone to pop the tranny open to check those, or does this definitely sound like a mount issue?