I seem to be having an issue with shifting into reverse or getting car to go in reverse, '58 "88" with original 371 and trans, it goes forward okay but when attempting to go backwards I get a sound like it is grinding gears and it does really move could it be something needs adjustment, like shift lever or linkage, or is that sound mean the trans needs some serious work done to it?

 

Idle speed set at 460 RPM, in Drive? Shift linkage too short?

Low fluid level?

Norm

 

Umh, It could be trans fluid level... I was on an incline [ well, still am since worried to move car or back up without fear of possibly doing major damage to trans....]
I 'll get the car to a level spot and check both the fluid and the linkage.
Thanks.
sometime it is the simple things you over look, like fluid level.

 

And I should add in to above post.. perhaps the trans does leak a little, given it's age it would be expected, so I'll check the fluid first, then move on to inspecting for other issues like fixing any leaks and linkage adjustment.