I have noticed similar behavior at cold but above-freezing temps. In my case I attributed it to the increased viscosity of the oil when colder. I’m sure the transmission warms up a good bit more slowly than the engine.

Last time I encountered this problem it seemed to increase in frequency until one day (like you) I couldn’t get the O/D no matter what. The fuse was blown. I was on my way home so I just made sure the solenoid and governor wires were clear of anything that might cause a short, replaced the fuse, and haven’t had a problem since.


1954 Crestline Victoria 312 4-bbl, 3-speed overdrive

Anyone else having this issue?  Hard to test solutions as much of the time when cold enough, it’s also wet/slushy.  Starting with the obvious (relay fuse/contacts, solenoid connections, relay change, then solenoid change).  I’m thinking it’s unlikely to be a temp-related internal trans./OD issue, since once the engine is warm, so is the trans.
Sometimes the OD won’t engage until the engine gets warm, but on a recent sub-freezing drive, it never did. Anything I’ve overlooked?  The kick-down switch is fairly new, and functions normally.  I suppose cleaning those connections/contacts could be included eventually.  I will need to drive a fairly long distance trip this winter, and would hate to run at 3000+ revs. for very long on the highway.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA