1991 TT 300ZX, Automatic, UK model, 81K, 50K on gearbox (reconditioned unit fitted but not in my ownership)

 

Just wondering if anyone can shed some light on why my ZX is being a bit odd. It won't shift up unless I blip the throttle. It will either stay at the RPM I'm travelling or climb until it reaches 5500-6000rpm, then change and you'll feel it whop the torque converter in. If I lift off the accelerator anywhere within the range that's suitable to change up, she'll do it instantly and smoothly.

 

Kickdown works

Changes down if I brake

O/D works

I have gears R, 1, 2, 3 and 4 (O/D)

Shifter works

Gear changes are smooth if I control them

 

I've had quite a few Zeds (some brilliant, some awful, all auto) and a JDM auto here to compare with. That one works as it should. I've always found there to be a lot more 'control' through the throttle compared to similar cars but this Zed isn't right. Once warm it should be shifting up by itself between 2000-3000rpm on a constant gentle throttle. A big side effect of getting stuck in gear is drastic fuel economy.

 

The power lights, which obviously in the UK car aren't labelled or selectable, do light up if I put my foot down and go out if I back off. It doesn't appear to be stuck in POWER mode but could that be possible?

 

I've had the car years but its' been in storage. It's always been odd but now I'd like to take it somewhere, however I can justify single digit MPG! I need it to shift up and not fall into 3rd gear on a cruise.

If it's been sitting for a while the fluid may have given up the ghost. I would try a fluid change and see if that helps.

As above ^^^^^

Its' been sat for 4 years. It gets moved every 6 months and a 40 mile drive each MOT. Most of the time it's outdoors too - undercover but exposed to the temperature.

Thanks chaps. Are ZX's normal ATF fluid?

Just make sure that it's Dex II stuff and you'll be fine :)

Dito on changing the fluid, however changing up when releasing the throttle is often caused by an incorrectly set throttle position sensor, would get that checked out.

 

Jeff TT

Thanks Jeff - will take a look!