Coolant/Transmission Question

[riwall]

When the vehicle is cold it is very slow to shift gears. After 5-10 minutes it is better. It has a new Ford 197 degree thermostat but the coolant temperature never gets very hot and so the heater hardly works at all. After driving for 30 minutes I can still touch the coolant without being burned. Any ideas? Thank you

 

[centralcoaster33]

I don't think your coolant issues will affect your sluggish shifting issues. If the new 'stat wasn't put on correctly, there could be no cirulation in your coolant system. Is this very very recent work? That would be bad, but your temp gauge would read hot since it's on the engine, and your radiator and hoses would be cool, 'cause nothings going through them. I did my water pump and had drained out coolant from so many places there was air, which could get in front or behind the pump or even the 'stat. So, I just pulled hoses here and there and tried to pour, suck and blow in more coolant. I warmed up the car again and it got really really hot, I started to get nervous, then pop!, the system started circulating again.

Disclaimer, I'm a 240sx guy

 

[shaggymane]

Since you live in tx cold & cold weather is not going to effect shifting. Likely it's just age. Bands need adjustment or O-rings and seals are wearing and not holding pressure till warm.

The cooling problem:
Incorrectly installed T-stat
T-stat is stuck open
Fan clutch is running all the time
One or all of the above