1991 Jetta GL with AT: Clunks on downshift from 2 -> 1

[s2zeller]

The transmission fluid level looks to be in the right range (per Bentley), and I'm not noticing any lag in the upshift from 1 -> 2 (or anywhere else for that matter).

Also, the clunk seems more prevalent when the car is cold.

The car has ~175k on it with no tranny work done (other than ATF flush every 30k or so).

Any ideas on what I (or a more qualified mechanic) should be looking at?

[WaterWheels]

Due to the internals of an automatic transmission there could be a few different reasons for this if in fact it is comming from the transmission itself. Have you checked the axles, could be a bad CV joint and not the transmission. What about engine mounts, checked them? If in fact it is internal to the transmission it will require someone experenced in them to find and repair the problem. That means most likely it will cost an are and a leg if the transmission is bad, Ever think about converting to a manual?

[s2zeller]

The mounts looked good to me.

It could be one of the CV's... they are original and have each had a boot replaced over the years.

I'm thinking I'll have the mechanic check things when I have it in for a new driver's side tie rod since the sound is pretty easy to replicate.

[Glegor]

it only doesnt upon downshift from 2 to 1?

not if you go from reverse to neutral?

[s2zeller]

I'll give that a try...

[s2zeller]

While the car was in the shop for suspension work, I asked the mechanic about the clunks. Most likely most of it is from the suspension problems described in my other recent thread (front strut mounts, driver's side tierod).

He did say that this vintage can be a little less smooth when colder (which is when I noticed the noises more). He also said that it shifted better than any he'd driven recently when he test drove it.

[WaterWheels]

. . . Most likely most of it is from the suspension problems described in my other recent thread (front strut mounts, driver's side tierod).

Funny how those un-important little details just seemed to get left out of this thread. Maybe many beople do this but I don't jump around looking for details about a question posted one place in all the other places. It really would have been nice if you threw in those facts here also

[s2zeller]

Sorry, I actually probably mis-posted in that last bit...

The transmission is making a bit of noise and does have a bit of a lag (when the weather is cold).

It is just made worse sounding than it is due to the other issues enhancing the vibration/sound.

I agree that I should have included it in my original post... just seemed different that I didn't want to confuse the two issues unnecessarily.

[Glegor]

Sorry, I actually probably mis-posted in that last bit...

The transmission is making a bit of noise and does have a bit of a lag (when the weather is cold).

It is just made worse sounding than it is due to the other issues enhancing the vibration/sound.

I agree that I should have included it in my original post... just seemed different that I didn't want to confuse the two issues unnecessarily.

sometimes, 2 seemingly un-related issues can be VERY related..

and worn out suspension components, that should have been included in your original post..

usually thats the first place most people would do, is check engine mounts and suspension mounts, to make sure they are not wasted.

check that the control arm/subframe bolts are TIGHT.. like REALLY TIGHT.

my Jetta used to clunk on the passenger side, whenever boost picked up.. turned out to be the rear control arm/subframe bolt wasnt completely tight. it wasnt loose by any means, but it wasnt super duper tight either..