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[Healeys] Overdrive Conundrum

To: Healeys <healeys@autox.team.net> oFsIYoZ1l46WSIGnwp/pj8dV6KiPL2fcBJGx45BePQpAGbmWlvQJHwAWZpF5ZFxE/3tFAYBol7twOJO3ZjHcw+9jejAD7CSTn9U=
Subject: [Healeys] Overdrive Conundrum
From: Bob Spidell via Healeys <healeys@autox.team.net>
Date: Fri, 24 Oct 2025 17:41:36 -0700
Delivered-to: mharc@autox.team.net
Delivered-to: healeys@autox.team.net
User-agent: Mozilla Thunderbird
Listers,

I have a problem with my BJ8's overdrive that defies conventional logic: 
The O/D will not engage when the drivetrain is cold, but begins to 
function more-or-less normally as the drivetrain gets fully heated-up 
(15-20m on a warm day). I've checked the functioning of the electricals; 
i.e. when not running I can a) disconnect the coil ground so as not to 
fry the Pertonix Ignitor, b) place the gearbox in 3rd or 4th and c) 
close either, or both, the dash switch and/or the switch on the shift 
knob --they're wired in parallel so either one will engage the O/D, but 
both need to be in off/open condition to disengage--and I can hear the 
solenoid click firmly (this pretty much rules out the switches). I have 
already replaced the scuttle relay to no effect (I have had them get 
flaky). AFAIK, the throttle/'kickdown' switch only comes into play when 
disengaging, and seems to work when the O/D does engage.

My thinking is, if the pump is failed or failing the O/D might work when 
the fluid is cold but cease to function as the fluid heats up and thins 
out (I've used Redline MT-90 successfully for over 100K miles or more; 
it's equivalent to 50wt engine oil). But, the O/D not engaging when cold 
(somewhat) refutes this theory. If the outlet check valve on the pump 
was somehow boogered I would expect either a) cold function only, or b) 
no function at all. Ditto the solenoid; I'd expect it to get flakey when 
hot and it does 'click' reliably (when cold). I can imagine the lever on 
the operating cam slipping, but wouldn't expect that to vary with 
temperature (or to work at all, actually). Actuating shaft lift was 
correctly set at rebuild. I do have a DWM 'uprated' accumulator 
installed, and the O/D engages within 2 seconds when it functions.

Anyone had this condition, or have a theory as to why it behaves this 
way? Next step would be to remove the console and confirm I have good 
oil pressure (but if I do, then what?).

TIA,
Bob
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