Overdrive problems!

Colin and Helen

Colin and Helen

0
Can anyone help please, coming back from Southwold at the weekend the overdrive started to 'slip' on the Autohome. I read through all the advice and first checked the oil level in the large 1" bolt on the gearbox, I believe this also feeds the overdrive? I could feel oil (which was very clean by the way) so I assumed that the oil was OK, a good thing as I was a little confused which oil to use anyway, 20/50 or EP80 or 90, monograde, no additives????
So I put the van into 3rd gear and flicked the overdrive switch. There was an electrical clicking sound, like the sound of something shorting......... not what I was expecting to hear, which was I suppose something engaging?? I looked at where the sound was coming from and it was the unit where the single electrical wire is attached, I assume this is a solenoid? As this part has a relatively transparent top cap, I could see electrical sparking, like something was arcing inside. Is this what should be happening or have I found the problem?? if so could anyone advise me how to fix it[?]
 
Hi guys, the manual says use engine oil in gearbox and OD - no additives. I've used Halfords 'Classic' 20/50 but as I haven't been out in Harvey yet I can't say how it performs - it's green in colour just like the old Duckhams[8D]

It sounds like there is a fault with the solenoid - it should be pretty quiet when it engages but a distinctive clunk when it dis-engages. The solenoid on the 'D' OD type is pretty easy to replace - take out the three bolts and remove the solenoid cover plate, remove the adjusting nut on the shaft, take out the two securing screws and detach the solenoid.

The 'J' type is even easier - you just screw it out.
'Harvey the RV'
 
Not sure if Martin M has any but I'm sure he'll let you know - failing that try the usual Speedy Spares. There is an ID plate on the O/D that should give you the details - but the differences in the solenoid should be pretty evident due to the fixing methods.
There are bound to be other sources around but my knowledge is limited (as with everything else:I) - anyone else know a good place for OD solenoids ?

'Harvey the RV'
 
http://www.canleyclassics.com/infodatabase.asp?article=overdrivesdtype
It is not a Commer but for Triumph's but overdrives are the same
 
no oil in there, its a easy bolt on/off job try a net search or ebay for one :)

"you were only supposed to blow the bloody SLIDING doors off"
 
Well, I thought I was making progress when I removed the soleniod and found the connecting wire on the back of the solenoid exposed and down to a couple of strands of copper! I replaced the wire thinking that was it.........but no! still the same problem, a kind of arcing between the points, or the device switching rapidly!
I know people will say, I should have bench tested the soleniod while it was off so that is tonights job. If I find that its working, there must be some other kind of electrical fault[?]Maybe the relay[?]
 
Hi Colin & helen we are only down the road if you need an extra pair of hands,Tims had to pop out so can't ask him but will be back later.

Sybhil & no1
 
OK, just an update, I have bench tested the solenoid and this seems to be the problem. The electromagnet? is loose within the cylindrical metal casing. I could get it to work, but it wasn't repeatable (it faded), probably why they might work intermittently before they give up altogether. I will order another and hopefully problem solved! Thanks for all the help so far:)
 
Cool - you sorted it out yourself really but we're always glad to offer support in any way we can - usually rubbish from me

'Harvey the RV'
 
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