Yet another 4-speed trans question

In my 94 TC, I've got the notorious transmission. A year and a half
ago, a few months after I bought it, the trans failed and I got a
rebuild (not at Aamco!). A few weeks ago, the output speed sensor
failed. Thanks to this group, I was able to figure out what the problem
probably was, and take it to my local garage.

Now, it's starting to go into limp mode. Occasionally, but the
frequency is increasing. Only in the first 5-10 minutes after the
engine is started (cold start or warm, not hot, restart). The local
garage couldn't replicate the problem.

I haven't had the trans fluid and filter changed since the rebuild, but
it hasn't been 2 years or 20K miles. I have driven it up into and in
the mountains a lot though, on ski trips.

The rebuild had a 1 year warranty, but none of the trouble happened
until after the year was up.

Would it be smart to first try changing the fluid and filter? The
transmission shop wants $70 just to read the codes and take a look.

Thanks,

Lisa

 

Dropping $70 now could save you a bundle. You figure it out.
Larry

 

But if changing the fluid and filter would save me the same bundle, and
take care of a normal service need at the same time, might that be a
better first step?

Lisa

 

After much cogitation, says...

Changing the fluid may help, but given that you don't have many miles
since the rebuild, I would bet something else is wrong. It may not be a
bad idea to get the scan anyway. If you do choose to just change the
fluid, I would get the scan as soon as possible if you sense something
is still wrong.

Doug

 

Thanks. I supposed I should get the scan first then.

I wish I'd found out about these transmissions before I bought the van.
Not surprisingly, none of the car review sites mentioned it, at all.
The sad thing is that other than the transmission, it's a wonderful
vehicle, perfect for my needs and priorities.

Lisa