O.K. guys. I need some advice from someone who has either re-built or replaced their 850 AT. My 1995 850 with 110k miles has decided to act up more than normal lately. I always maintain the fluid (flush & fill) every 20k miles.
Today the car sat all night in approx. 35 degree weather and when I started it up to run some errands I could not get it past 45 mph on the freeway. The tach read well over 3,000 rpm's and the car would go no faster than 40-45 mph.
The front end felt like it was shuddering. I pulled onto the shoulder and stopped the car. Got out and smelled a nice burnt type smell coming from the engine compartment. Waited a few minutes and pulled out again with the same results. I reached my destination and parked the car for around 30-45 minutes.
Came out, started the car again and it ran fine, shifting as normal. This is not a PNP switch problem, as there are no codes and no idiot up-arrow lights coming on. I love this car but the transmission sucks! What are my options to rectify this problem? Can I rebuilt my present trans? This problem is one of those sporadic types, where even if I took it to my local Volvo mechanic, it probably would not occur for him. I even pondered buying a re-built 850 trans I saw someone trying to sell on EBay for $100. There has got to be a way to get this machine running smoothly again without costing a fortune. I do have a specialized Volvo/Saab mechanic that runs his own shop that I can trust. Should I have him open up the trans? Would he even be able to tell what is wrong by doing that? Sorry for the loong winded post. I am at my wits end.