Hi all,

The Compact A-Type overdrive on my '66 S-Type (a 55,000 miler) is not kicking in at the moment. The red light illuminates and I can hear the solenoid clicking when I operate the switch.

I replaced the solenoid (retaining the original pushrod) last year (4,000 miles ago) when the original failed and all seemed fine. I've just done a 1000-mile trip and, although it wasn't engaging reliably on the first day, it was fine for the rest of the trip. Amongst one or two other bits of work, I had the oil level checked before I set off.

So, the electrics appear OK and I'm thinking (hoping!) this is an adjustment issue. However, I remember what a pig it was for access to replace the solenoid without the car being on a ramp....working with a mirror, etc.

Thoughts, anyone?

 

Check your oil level--if good check condition of oil. If that seems good check the filter screen prior to the oil pump. Your check of the adjustment is assumed to be first and I did read you had checked the oil some time ago--good luck!

 

As George says, adjustment first, then oil level, then filter, then also non return valve.

It is generally either adjustment or oil pressure, adjustment being obvious, and low oil pressure can be caused by the oil level, filter or non-return valve.
It can also be the pistons etc. but the first are the most common issues.

let us know how you get on.

 

Hi,

Thanks for the replies, both.

I know the oil level's fine. Filter was checked last year. The non-return valve's been mentioned elsewhere as well, so I'll have a look at that when I get a chance.

Cheers,
Stan