90 AWD auto shifting problems

[90LegAWD]

tranny has ~60k miles on it. when starting normally from a slow speed (0-15mph) the tranny "slips" until about 2500rpm, then it grabs quickly jerking the car. after that it seems to shift OK.

could excessive fluid cause this problem? i pulled the dipstick to see if it was low this morning, and when cold/off, the fluid is WAY over the top of the full mark. do i have to check it when cold and idling?

my first scooby, and first automagic trans

[Legacy777]

you can't check the fluid with the car off.

To properly check the fluid the tranny needs to be up to normal operating temp. After that, park on a level surface. Cylce the gear selector slowly from park to 1, and back to park again. Leave the car RUNNING, and then go check the fluid level.

[90LegAWD]

ok, thanks. i'll check it properly at lunch.

any idea what might cause this problem? is there a solenoid/sensor that could be bad?

basically, if i sit stopped at a red light in park, and i rev the engine to 2k, it barely creeps forward 1-2feet. if i just let off the brake while in park at a stop and it's in drive, the car just sits there, it doesn't start rolling forward like it should.

sorry about the newbie questions, but like i said, this is my first automatic tranny ever. is this something i should just try and have the local scooby dealer check out?

[Legacy777]

really not sure what the problem is. Could be a stuck solenoid or valve.

Check the fluid. You may want to change it as well. Putting new fluid in may help get rid of some gum and varnish...if that's the problem.

[90LegAWD]

i checked it again at lunch according to your directions, and it still appears to be excessively high. i mean, there's fluid a good 2inches on the dip stick above the hot full mark.

[Legacy777]

it can be difficult to read.......but anyway....you just may want to go ahead and drain & fill the tranny fluid with new stuff.