I bought a 1986 deville ($1200) and it has over 150k miles on it. Runs good, but has the following issues:

1. 1st to 2nd shifting is really sluggish and sorta SLIDES into gear. All the rest of the shifts are fine.

Anyone seen this and know what it could be?

2. The engine leaks oil faster than I can put it in. I think its the oil pan....has anyone changed one of these and is it quite difficult or easy?

..just looking for some advice and comments - thanks!

Jeff

question 1

When does it feel sluggish? or is it all the time when you drive?

question 2

Make sure your valve covers aka Rocker arm covers arent leaking. They seem to leak the most fluid. Changing the oil pan gasket can be a small hassle because you will have to gently lift the motor up 3 to 4 inches at max and make sure your @ TDC cause it will be easier. Other ways work but this works the best i feel

Its always sluggish. Hot or cold. All the time I drive.

Its like the old GM POWERGLIDEs that we used to call the POWERSLIDE :-)

I am wondering if it could be as simple as a fluid/filter change....

All other shifts are fine....just that one!

Thanks :-)

Jeff

Have you checked the TV cable that controls the shifting of the trans? Adjusted mine on my 87 deville and it helped the shifting and on the oil pan issue, dont worry about raising the motor. Dont need to but be careful with the coolant line that goes under the oil pan by the crank pulley. I changed my oil pan gasket and in the process the little metal coolant line broke. You will see 2 metal lines that meet under the oil pan with a short rubber hose to connect the two.