Powerglide Questions

Mike Walter · 07-04-2011, 07:15 PM

A powerglide's reverse works by fluid being directed from the valve body into a port in the bottom of the case into a chamber which when filled, will push against a reverse piston until it compresses the reverse clutches. This applies reverse. Most problems with reverse not working have to with the reverse clutches being burned up, or a rubber seal in the piston having failed. Not much else would cause a problem. Since your description of the powerglide you have involves lots of foreign matter in the pan, my bet is your reverse clutches are spent.

I have seen individuals which needed to change a case and then find themselves without reverse. There are alum. powerglides which came with a reverse pump somewhat similar to the front pump. When using a case which came with this, you have to drill the passage from the bottom of the case so it can be activated from valve body pressure.

Hope this helps....Mike

07-04-2011, 07:15 PM	#4
Mike Walter Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 117 Likes: 12 Liked 46 Times in 4 Posts	Re: Powerglide Questions A powerglide's reverse works by fluid being directed from the valve body into a port in the bottom of the case into a chamber which when filled, will push against a reverse piston until it compresses the reverse clutches. This applies reverse. Most problems with reverse not working have to with the reverse clutches being burned up, or a rubber seal in the piston having failed. Not much else would cause a problem. Since your description of the powerglide you have involves lots of foreign matter in the pan, my bet is your reverse clutches are spent. I have seen individuals which needed to change a case and then find themselves without reverse. There are alum. powerglides which came with a reverse pump somewhat similar to the front pump. When using a case which came with this, you have to drill the passage from the bottom of the case so it can be activated from valve body pressure. Hope this helps....Mike