Transmission problems in a 94 Olds 88

[Tuffguy610]

Hello all,
I normally post on here for solutions to issues with my car, but today I am posting with regards to my girlfriend's 94 Olds 88 with an L27 non supercharged 3.8 that has 75,000 miles on it. Her transmission is having the following issues:

- When put in reverse, it will occasionally fail to engage, and will simply roll as if in neutral.
- When coming to a stop at a traffic light, the vehicle will shudder when the car comes to a stop, as if the transmission is disengaging or having trouble with a 2-1 shift. This does not appear to be torque converter clutch related.
- The car occasionally emits a burning smell from underneath the hood. Also, the transmission fluid smells burnt.

She is the second owner of the car, her grandfather was the first. The car has seen almost 90% city driving with minimal highway use. The transmission service was performed 4 months ago (pan dropped, not a flush), and the fluid level is correct. We also added a bottle of Lucas trans-fix after she started having issues (no luck). My question: is there any type of adjustment we can check to make sure something isn't out of whack? A cable? Check the setting of the shift linkage? I know these are computer controlled and there is most likely nothing to help us but any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[Jrs3800]

The only thing I can think of to check is the Vacuum modulator on the trans, this controls line pressure.. If there is any fluid coming out of the vacuum port of the Modulator then it needs to be replaced... But even if it was bad it may not be the solution to your problem.. But its one thing you can check

[willwren]

That sounds like a plausible explanation for all 3 symptoms, so take the time to check it. Easy cheap fix if that's it.

If it's not, you're looking at a rebuild. Reverse reaction drum, clutches, and maybe the TC.

[Tuffguy610]

Hey guys,
Just wanted to give you an update. We checked the modulator and it was bone dry. The car is still drivable, but numerous mechanics have told us that the trans is toast if the fluid smells burnt and it slips into neutral briefly at a light. She weighed her options and since the car has only 75k on it and it is in pristine condition with all working creature comforts, she is going to keep the car. She took it in today for a rebuild on the original trans for $1500 by a reputable trans builder. She is getting a 1 year/12,000 mile warranty. We figured she'd need a warranty to cover ourselves in case something goes wrong on the break-in period. I might coax her into installing a trans cooler as a precaution for the new unit. Thanks for your help.