1984 Silverado

[diyAndy]

I'm new to this forum and just bought my 2nd ever Silverado. It's a 1984 with the 6.2 diesel. Truck is in "ok" shape, but is hard to start and won't go into reverse. It does go into neutral and drive and will drive forward. I've read the hard starting could be glow plug related, but it isn't cold here and it was still hard to start. My main concern is the not going into reverse. Can someone please help me with where to start? Fluid level is good.

 

[NickTransmissions]

See if you have engine braking when in manual low. If not, low reverse clutch pack is fried and unit will have to come out for overhaul. Low reverse failures can result in case replacement as the metal debris from the friction discs begin to cut deep scoring lines in the seal surfaces for the low reverse piston. Once the case is empty and cleaned up, closely inspect those sealing surfaces for scoring. Very minor scoring can be cleaned up with sand paper and/or Emory cloth but deep scoring means case replacement.