Re: TF727

["Tom Harais" <tjhemh@domain.elided>]

Guys (and others):

One thing about downshifting that 727:

It is an internally controlled transmission. That is, no electronics or
outside information controls it's shifts -save one. What is happening
inside the tranny is what controls shift/downshift points. You have a
signal external input, it's that shaft/lever that connects to the
carburetor linkage. It's position indicates "throttle position" to the 727.
There is a slot on the top of the rod with a bolt holding it to the
throttle linkage. You can adjust your 727's shift points by adjusting that
rod's position in relation to the throttle linkage.

But, since I am doing this by memory, and my last shift point adjustment
was at least six years ago, don't ask me the particulars. Look it up! I
don't remember if forward is sooner shift points or more delayed. I do
remember that the more you delay, the later the upshifts under WOT as well.

FROM EXPERIENCE: When my Terra started not downshifting early enough on
long climbs and I was embarressed to no end, I discovered that it was not a
tired engine or worn transmission. NOPE, it was as simple as my throttle
cable had stretched and the rotational point on the gas pedal lever had
developed a lot of play and the lever had even bent. The overall effect was
I wasn't getting WOT (or complete trans lever movement either since the
throttle wasn't WOT) when I floored the thing.

A new pedal assembly and throttle cable did wonders for my Terra's anemic
performance. I could spin tires again. It downshifted crisply when the RPMS
dropped into the 2000s and held until redline going up hills. I was smoking
those Pintos and Japanese econoboxes using 2nd gear to climb Kirker Pass
Road again.

So, check that your throttle linkage isn't worn and that you actually are
getting WOT when you stomp on the "go pedal". If so, then adjust that
actuator rod if your transmission isn't downshifting when it should.

Tom H.