[Mac VP]

Another thing that you can do to help improve the operation of the overdrive system is easy to do. Add a ground strap…..from one of the bolts holding the solenoid to the transmission casting…..connected to the steel body at a nearby location. Don’t connect to the frame. This will provide a best possible ground for the overdrive system. Both the solenoid and the governor are ordinarily grounded through the transmission case. If the quality of the ground has degraded over the years, the operation of the overdrive system is affected. Both of those components must get a good ground and that occurs through the transmission castings….through the bell housing….through the engine block….and through the ground strap connection to the firewall (the body of the car). There are many disruptions to this path, such as dirt, paint, oil, loose fasteners, etc that can develop over all the years. Adding a ground strap can only help the quality of the ground for the overdrive system.

Make sure to use a sufficient gauge of wire and make it long enough to allow for some flexible movement. I like to use stainless steel hardware for the ground strap including stainless steel tooth washers. The connection to the body needs good clean metal to metal contact. A dab of silicone sealer over the new tight connection helps keep it clean and free of any eventual corrosion.