BPG_Austin

Morning all. I have an 87 S4 auto. From 40-80 mph or so I get a great downshift into 3rd. However, my car has never, or very rarely am I able to catch, the downshift from 3rd to 2nd. Or, 4th to 2nd? She's a DOG from 20-40mph or so, or until I hit 3k on the tack. Car otherwise is a screamer and transmission functions properly. Fluid is at correct level. Car has no vac leaks.
What do I need to adjust to get the 3-2 downshift?

Ben

Popo928

Try adjusting the Bowden Cable. It's one of the cables that connects along side the intake with the throttle cable. Tighten it and you should notice the tranny holding gears longer, but it will also be much more responsive to downshift. Try about three turns first, test drive, adjust again and adjust to your liking. Also, check to see if the kick-down switch under the gas peddle has both connectors connected.

BPG_Austin

Just ran out and tweeked the bowden. Just to be sure I did this right... At the throttle linkage assembly I undid the small nut that attaches to the ball joint end. Once loose I turned the cable in to tighten. I only got one turn out of it before reaching the end of travel. There is no thread left showing to screw in the lock nut. It now floats on the cable! A test drive around the block gave me downshifts to 2nd under heavy throttle. Very nice.. I'd like to go more but dont' have cable. Is it stretched out or is there another place for adjustment?
Kick-down is functioning correctly.

BG

Mongo

Check your throttle cable too. I tightened mine up and it gives me instantaneous downshifts as well as first gear launches at 1/3 throttle.