testament to another quick change con job - ranks up there with fram

[Audi Dude]

Patient is a 1990 90 with I5 Engine.  Automatic 3 Speed Tranny.  I was
having no problems with the tranny when, on 4/2/03 I took it in to
Precision Transmission in Paducah, KY for a “transtune” special.  The
special consists of changing the fluid and cleaning the filter as well
as normal inspections of the transmission..new pan gasket
..  It was in
the shop over an hour for this service but felt myself lucky when it
came out and I was presented with the bill – only $37.50!  Final drive
oil was fine – no need to add.  I was glad the trans got a good bill of
health and my checkbook was relieved by the low price of the service.
Until a couple of weeks later when I started noticing the passing gear
not engaging at highway speeds.  And it got worse.  Last night I had to
drive almost ¼ mile before it would shift into second gear.  Inspection
this morning revealed not low trans fluid but actually at least 2 quarts
too much fluid in the trans.  I had it taken to another transmission
shop while it was having a good alignment / balance / rotation service
done on it.  I called Precision Transmission this morning to let them
know what I found this morning and his words to me were: Too much fluid
is not a bad thing.  I am thinking hogwash – why does the dipstick show
a minimum and a maximum fluid level?  Then he starts in by saying that
it is a ‘high mileage’ engine.  Sure 136,000 is a lot of miles but on a
13 year old car?  A WELL MAINTAINED 13 year old car – I am doubtful that
is considered high mileage.  I have all the service records on the car
from when it was trucked from PA to MO when dealer took possession of
it.  I KNOW there were no problems.  To put icing on this cake, he
offered to look at it and determine the problems for a mere $91.00
diagnostic fee.  Even though I have only put 800 miles on their work.
Before I give Precision Transmission another dime I will buy a new trans
(if they exist) and consider myself lucky to learn first hand that quick
change oil and whatever-they-can bilk-you-out-of else is not that way to
go.



My question is this – I have made a few mistakes with the car – a Fram
ONCE and only once.  A bad strut experience.  Does anyone know if too
much trans fluid can cause the problems I have seen since the fluid was
changed or should I look elsewhere for the problem.  I appreciate any
and all help.  I am almost to the point of parting it out and buying a
Shwinn.



Ben

1990 90 n0n Q  n0n Turbo