1996 850T Tranny won't go into reverse.

[precopster]

I know you're beginning to get really excited about the prospect of spending 30 hrs plus under your car while dropping the gearbox off a donor car, however why not try and learn something really awesome about your gearbox such as which solenoid does the reverse function and try to repair it by removing the front cover and doing some basic ohm meter and voltage actuation tests on the solenoids?

You'll need to hire or have a loan of an engine support beam in either case so you may as well drop the corner of the subframe, remove the cover and take a peek.

ATSG have great online support. You may be able to download a manual from their website for the AW50-42LE and have it repaired in under 6 hours.

[850TurboTurtle]

Thanks precopster. A reluctant mechanic, so not entirely sure what you are referring to but I'm game. Anyplace I can learn more how to do what you suggested?

[wheelsup]

There is a thread here about replacing a solenoid in the transmission. It has 3 IIRC, two are replaceable one isn't. The one that isn't is the one that controls pump pressure.

If it is a solenoid that will be a much easier repair than R&Ring the transmission.

An engine hoist is definitely the easiest way to go. Using a 25% coupon from Harbor Freight you can get one for around $180 IIRC (I paid $144 including tax 3 or so years ago) - get the 2 ton, it has a much longer reach and makes it actually useful. You can do it the backyard way by using a beam, and some straps if you drop it out the bottom but the hoist makes it much, much simpler. As a nice touch, you can often sell that 2 ton hoist on Craigslist for $100 or so once you are done if you don't want to keep it. There are several around me for the same price so you could always buy used and resell for a similar price if that option exists. Way easier.

Following my guide it shouldn't take you more than 12 hours to do it, two easy days, if you have access to pneumatic or electric impact tools. That saves a boatload of time. Do-able without but not as easy on the body.

I also recommend a pair of 6 ton jack stands because they will lift the car higher.

[precopster]

Thanks precopster. A reluctant mechanic, so not entirely sure what you are referring to but I'm game. Anyplace I can learn more how to do what you suggested?

Google "AW50-42LE solenoids" and you'll find the official Volvo diagnostic guide as a PDF on a British site. This may help with diagnosis. ATSG doesn't have a manual on their website.

If this sheds some light on what it could be the next step is to drop the subframe corner and remove the cover to access the solenoids. Tops 6 hrs to perform.

[850TurboTurtle]

You guys are awesome. Fills me with hope! Next bit of warm weather I'll try the solenoid diagnostics/repair. Thanks, Rick & the turbo turtle.

[rspi]

Please keep the thread posted. I'd like to know if my issue was a simpler fix than replacement.

[850TurboTurtle]

Will update with a full explanation once I isolate and fix the problem. Rick