Overdrive

[Barnum]

So the brakes are now working....did the master cylinder in the process....on the test run the car was in overdrive.....free wheeling....but would not engage....it was working fine before I was under there.....any ideas where to look ? I think it is perhaps the wires at the kickdown switch

[Barnum]

The test run

[kaiserfrazerlibrary]

Go through the checklist in the Mechanics Manual for the car...it could be one of several things.

[joefrazer]

Since the OD relay is mounted on the firewall, you should be able to hear it click when engaged and going at least 28 mph. Try that first and if it is engaging, then your troubles are either in the wiring leading away from the kickdown switch or those under the car around the solenoid.

The system needs good clean contacts to work right and all it takes is one loose wire and trouble results.

[Barnum]

The relay on the firewall seems ok....so I suspect that I must have brushed something under the car.... Thanks !

[84RabbitGTI]

My fuse didn't look burned through, but had melted enough for the connection to be intermittent.  They're cheap, just get another one to eliminate that as a problem.  The overdrive system is pretty reliable, so the only time you should have trouble is when the Overdrive solenoid is not getting power.  Clean all your connections, of course and check for continuity in your wires.  Did you disturb the cable which engages the OD?  If so, it may still freewheel, but not engage enough to activate the switch at the transmission.

[Barnum]

I will double check the cable,,,,,had to undo the cable bracket at the master cylinder....then check wires....thanks!

[Barnum]

GTI you were correct ....  I disconnected the cable and reengaged the OD....and it works fine ! Thanks !

[84RabbitGTI]

Glad to be of help.  That's what this forum is for!
Keep 'em on the road.   

[Aeroman]

What a beautiful 1954 Lark early special. Does it have the flathead 161 or the F-head?

[Barnum]

Thanks Aeroman !...it is the 161 F head.