63R2 AT problem: no reverse: Need advice

[forward]

My recent purchase of a '63 R2 AT has a problem I need advice/help to diagnose.    Running OK,  but last time driven I noticed it "spooled" before going into reverse.  Took about 5 seconds before it engaged.    Car has been sitting for a couple of years before purchase so am addressing leaks etc.    Used Type F to make sure fluid in tranny was up to mark when hot as it was leaking tranny fluid pretty bad.

Today, NO reverse.   Won't move.   I have the shop manual but am confused on checking adjustment for reverse/low band.  Of course I don't have the Studebaker tools so what's the correct procedure to use?   The manual says USE tool J-5883 on adjustment screw and tighten screw until the wrench "overruns" then back off etc.     Never heard that term "overruns"  and what does it mean?

I want to try adjustment.    The tranny shops in SE MN don't seem to want to talk about working on a '63 Avanti.   Please advise.

If you're in SE MN area and know of a reputable tranny shop please let me know.

[mfg]

10 hours ago, forward said:

My recent purchase of a '63 R2 AT has a problem I need advice/help to diagnose.    Running OK,  but last time driven I noticed it "spooled" before going into reverse.  Took about 5 seconds before it engaged.    Car has been sitting for a couple of years before purchase so am addressing leaks etc.    Used Type F to make sure fluid in tranny was up to mark when hot as it was leaking tranny fluid pretty bad.

Today, NO reverse.   Won't move.   I have the shop manual but am confused on checking adjustment for reverse/low band.  Of course I don't have the Studebaker tools so what's the correct procedure to use?   The manual says USE tool J-5883 on adjustment screw and tighten screw until the wrench "overruns" then back off etc.     Never heard that term "overruns"  and what does it mean?

I want to try adjustment.    The tranny shops in SE MN don't seem to want to talk about working on a '63 Avanti.   Please advise.

If you're in SE MN area and know of a reputable tranny shop please let me know.

That reverse band adjustment can be made without using the special factory tool....Just a matter of loosening the locknut, then winding adjustment bolt in to a specific torque, then backing bolt off a number of turns...to be honest, I do not remember how many..but that info is available in Motor's Manuals.

[64studeavanti]

Just to ask the obvious, did you check trans fluid level?

[Zedman]

If your fluid level is correct (checked whilst the car is actually in gear and running- careful) then I would suspect the rubber O rings in the Drums may have failed; they get flattened out and brittle with age.. Just how old is this transmission?