97, 4.2L V6, 4R70W(? I'm not 100% sure), 60k miles, not driven everyday if it is important (parked for days)

Start the motor.
Set gear selector to DRIVE.
Transmission does not engage.
Release brake pedal.
Transmission engages after 1-2 seconds of delay.

I don't mind waiting 1-2 seconds. But when it engages, it does with impact. That's what I am concerned about. Not knowing how transmission works, I am without a clue how to solve the impact problem. Thanks for your help.

 

1. Have you checked the tranny fluid level and looked at it to see if it's all dirty and nasty?

2. If the fluid is low, top it off. If it's dirty and nasty, do a complete fluid and filter change, including draining the torque converter.

 

I will check the fluid level tomorrow. I drained torque converter and transmission about 3 years ago. I haven't driven the pickup much, so it cannot be dirty, but can be low if there is a leak. Thanks for the advice.

 

1) There was a leak. About 1/4 qt low. It's shifting okay now. Thanks.
2) The leak was at the aluminum/rubber connection. In order to add auxiliary transmission cooler I had to cut aluminum line, flared it a bit, and put rubber over the flare with a single hose clamp. I tightened the clamp and added a second one. Is there a better way?