Advice please. When cold my Freelander will frequently not engage reverse immediately. But will always engage forward gears,even when cold - so I solve the problem by reversing into my carport! Reverse works fine when the engine is warm. The fluid level has been checked in the proper way and my mechanic suggests that the seals within the gearbox are getting old and inflexible when cold. Apart from trying not to need reverse when the transmission is cold (!) he suggests that an additive may help. Is anyone familiar with this problem and how I might solve it. If an additive is recommended, which particular ones are likely to be most effective? Thanks

It's common for the reverse brake band to wear, so the actuator needs extend more than it should.

Thank you for this Nodge! I am on a tiny Caribbean island and they tend to use American terminology here! I have just spoken with my mechanic (a great guy) but he does not understand your explanation!! You have written, "the actuator needs extend more than its should".

Where is the "actuator" and does it have a different name? Is it inside the transmission or outside. You say the 'actuator' needs extend. Is it possible for you to explain a little more to help us please???? Thanks Alan

Fess said:

American terminology here! I have just spoken with my mechanic (a great guy) but he does not understand your explanation!! You have written, "the actuator needs extend more than its should".

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The piston that moves the brake band. The piston is fed with fluid under pressure from the pump, which clamps the reverse brake band onto the reverse drum. When the band lining wears out, the piston extends more than its designed, which makes reverse engagement rather difficult.

Fess said:

Where is the "actuator" and does it have a different name? Is it inside the transmission or outside. You say the 'actuator' needs extend. Is it possible for you to explain a little more to help us please???? Thanks Alan

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The reverse gear actuator piston is inside the gearbox, connecting to the reverse brake band.

Thanks Nodge. That is a pity since it would mean opening up the gearbox and we do not have sterile conditions here - it would be done under the shade of a mango tree with a fair amount of dust swirling around. I imagine that would not be a good idea!

Fess said:

That is a pity since it would mean opening up the gearbox and we do not have sterile conditions here - it would be done under the shade of a mango tree with a fair amount of dust swirling around. I imagine that would not be a good idea!

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I've rebuilt transmissions on the kitchen table before now, simply to avoid such issues.