Rmcdermittiv

So... I recently bought an 84 crossfire, she's my first Vette, and she's a project. I've gotten the engine running, replaced several parts, I consider myself a decent mechanic.... but I know almost nothing about transmissions. This car sat in the desert for over a year before I found and rescued her.
It was pretty low on fluid, so I had to add 5.5 quarts to get her to read full. Now, when i put it in drive, it clunks really hard, and she'll drive in first but wont shift into 2nd. Reverse works also, but clunks into gear also. Any ideas?

JimLentz

Did you check the fluid after moving the car? If not, you probably need to add more transmission fluid. The clunking could be the U-joints . You can get under the car and see if they are loose.

Rmcdermittiv

I did not, i just filled it to full and then tested it out.
U-joints will keep it from shifting?
My first thought was sludge from sitting so long.

JimLentz

The U-joints would make that noise. Still being low on transmission fluid would cause the shifting issues.

JoBy

Transmission level should be checked at idle in park after moving the gear selector to all positions.

Correct level will be higher if engine is not running.

Ahnenerbe

If you have driven it in 1st, do as others have said and check level again after warming up and driving. If problem still is there you may need to do a good flush as it could be gummed up. Usually though, it will only do what you are describing if level is low.

RF1

If the tv cable is adjusted properly, and the valve moves smoothly, you have a governor problem. Sticky governor valve, or apple cored gear.
This assumes fluid is full.

confab

Check these things first.

It may just be bad if you have no experience with the car. It could be the reason they parked it.

But this list is where you should begin.

PS: 5.5 qts is a lot. It only holds around 3 gallons full.

Good Luck!!!