Hi, i'm new to this forum and to the slant 6.
I have many different questions, but since this is a tranny forum, i will ask about the tranny only.
Just bought a 1987 Dodge Ram Van with slant 6 and a 4 speed automatic tranny.
I noticed, that the tranny is shifting a little late, especially out of the first gear.
It dosen't have the rpm gage, but judging by the sound, it revs it pretty high.
The shift usually ocurs around 35 km/h.
From the second to third it still shifts a little late, but it dosen't feel as bad as from 1st to second.
The fluid looks really good, but i noticed there is a little more than the maximum, not by much, maybe about 1/2 litre.
Could that have something to do with it?
Is there any way to adjust the shifting points?
Please keep it as simple as possible, since my mechanical knowledge isn't very strong.
Thank you in advance for any reply's.

Are you sure this is a Slant 6 with 4spd automatic?? Everyone here is under the impression that the 4spd auto was never put behind a Slant. Could it be a lockup 3spd auto? Is there an adapter plate between the engine and transmission bellhousing?

You should be able to adjust the shift points with the kickdown linkage. This is connected to the carb/TB on one end, and to the trans kickdown lever on the other end. If you make this linkage shorter overall (should be adjustment nut somewhere on the linkage), then the tranny will shift earlier. This will be easily seen if you pull the doghouse off.

Hope this helps,

Lou

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Home of Slant6-powered fun machines since 1988

Thank you for the reply, yes it is 3 spd indeed, somehow I automatically assumed that it is a four speed.
I will try to adjust the kickdown lever tomorrow, see what happens.

I made the linkage adjustement, and what a difference!!
It shifts really nice and my mpg will probably go up significantly.
Thanx again.

Glad to help out.

Happy Slanting,

Lou

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Home of Slant6-powered fun machines since 1988