Hi there.

 

Name: True Tourtillott

Location: San Jose, CA

Age: 35

Gender: Male

Car: 99 Legacy Outback Wagon (white)

Interests: Cycling, surfing, skiing, running

 

 

Kinda havin a problem with the tranny.

When I shift into drive sometimes nothing happens for a bit before the tranny engages. Stopped by AA beep-beep MCO and they guy said he didn't know much about Subies (that inspired confidence) but did a little reading and thought it might be one of the internal servos or the TCU.

 

Does this jive with the knowledge base?

 

Thanks,

True

Start simple...how is the tranny fluid level and color?

Checked all the usual stuff.

 

The fluid is at the appropriate level, coloration and smell. (does anyone else dig the smell of ATF?)

In the older legacies, there was a problem with a valve losing pressure, leaking. It made the auto trannies hesitate upon start up. One could fix it, but it's a royal pain. I've been running mine for 3 years like that and no continued problems other than letting it idle to build up pressure. That's no a big deal up here where you need to let the motor warm up anyway.

any other ideas folks?

It would make sense that it's low on fluid

 

However, my Camry does that too...and it's not low on fluid?

 

Nope, fluid level is fine.

I hate the smell of ATF. Sorry.

My 2000GT had the transmission replaced at 35000 miles due to a delayed engagement. Seems like it was a known probelm with an inadequacy in a valve internal to the transmission. Call your local Sube dealer and ask them about delayed engagement. They are well aware of the problem. I guess you're out of the 5 year / 60K drive train warranty?!