I have a 96 z28, 4 speed auto. I read that GM put a blocking pin on the shifter under the console so you cant use 1st gear. If I took out that blocking pin, and had 4 forward positions, would that do any damage just by doing that? i understand if im doing 60 or something and hit it into 1st, it will mess something up. But does just removing it do any harm?

 

I used to have a 96, and it would go into first. That's the first I've heard of that "feature". Anyway, if yours has a limit pin, removing it won't affect anything good or bad...as long as you don't go downshifting into too low of a gear while moving too fast. Common sense plays a big part in that.

 

wow i didnt know there was a 1st gear lockout on a auto. looked a little and found this.
9C1 4L60Es come with a “1st gear lockout” function that is a tab secured next to the shift linkage by the oil pan bolts. This can be removed by removing the two bolts and then reinstalling and torqueing them to 9ftlbs.

 

Ahhhhh, then a good samaritan previous owner musta "fixed" mine.

 

thanks guy. yeah, mine has 2nd gear as my low. its just 2nd, drive, and overdrive. but yeah, if it takes common sense not to mess anything up, then i'll try it hah thanks again guys

 

2.73 geared autos came with the first gear lock out, 3.23 geared autos can select first. (This is what I've learned over the years doing research on our autos - my 700r4 more specifically. haha)

Also, I wouldn't suggest shifting your 4l60-e manually. They don't like it.

 

even though i have a b&m transpak shift kit, i shouldnt shift it ? i mean i didnt plan on driving around town, shifting all the time. just for racing, whenever i need it

 

^^ doesnt it depend on the year?? my 99 has 2.73 gears and has a 1st, 2nd D and overdrive (4 positions)

lol, shifting manually is the only way for it to change when you want

 

Downshifting the trans manually won't harm it, AS LONG as you don't go into too low a gear at too fast a speed. Upshifting manually won't harm the trans at all.

 

ok good. like i said though, im only gonna shift when i have to beat a ricer just cruising the town im gonna keep it in drive