I'm experiencing a hard shift getting out of 1st gear and only 1st gear in my automatic transmission when the engine is cold. It will rev up to around 4000- 5000 rpm before shifting out of first when cold, and shifts pretty hard and jolty when it does. I suspect its a sticky valve or something of the sort, has anyone experienced this?

 

this is probably totally useless...but this happens in my Honda (warm or cold) and it's due to a bad motor mount. I haven't yet gotten my yota out onto the road yet after buying it so I am hoping I don't expirience this. Also an automatic. I hope you figure out the problem quick. Check your motor mounts. Couldn't hurt.

 

Is your shift down cable adjusted correctly

 

Lucas transmission stop slip, that stuff really works! My buddy used it in his 4L60E that kept slipping in and out of over drive. works great now

 

x2 on kick down cable. It may be a little too loose or tight? Possibly a shift soloniod starting to act up?? If you dont know about transmissions might want to have someone look at it, before it gets real costly..

 

There is no kickdown cable on your transmission. The cable that connects to the throttle valve directly controls line pressure. Since your problem only occurs in 1st gear, I don't believe you have a problem with you primary regulator valve (which is what that cable connects to)

To determine whether you problem is electrical or mechanical, I would to a "manual shift test". To do this test, disconnect the solenoid wiring going into the transmission (it is on the drivers side, toward the rear corner of the transmission oil pan). Using your manual shifter, confirm that the following gears engage as described...

P=PARK
R=REVERSE
L=1ST
2=3RD
D=O/D

Note that there is no way to get into 2nd gear with this test. Do not downshift at a high road speed as there is not overspeed protection. (ie: don't select "L" when going 65 down the highway)

Post back with your results.