I have a 360 Duster with a 727 and Turbo Action reverse manual valvebody. The issue I am having is 3rd gear. First & second are great. When shifting into 3rd it won't always go into gear without playing with the throttle. Often when shifting into 3rd it acts like it pops into neutral. If it is in third and I let off the throttle and then accelerate, it also acts like it pops into neutral. Is the 2/3 band or clutches going bad?

Could be


Have you checked your linkage adjustment latly?

Being a manual valve body the only linkage is the shifter linksge. It is adjusted correctly because as the transmission clicks into each gear it lines up with the shifter position. I know with this valve body when you coast in first it seems like it goes into neutral. That is the way it acts in third. I did try to adjust the band so I know that is correct. I am not a trans expert but it sounds like you are saying that when the trans is in third it is operating on the clutches in the front drum. So it sounds like those clutches are gone correct?

On a low idle ... how is it going-into reverse ?

Seems to be a slight delay again when shifting to reverse. When starting to back up there is a second where it acts like it is in neutral then in engauges and it is good after that.

I would say it is badly worn or broken reaction shaft sealing rings ...or a blown-out rubber seal in the front clutch pack.

PULL the pan and report what is on the bottom.

Will do as soon as I have the opportunity. I will let you know. Thanks

I agree with the seal rings. It could also be the front drum is worn out along with the seal rings. Stop driving it. Maybe you haven't burned up the front clutch yet.