A transmission that is not engaging fully when in drive might need a new shift solenoid. There is also a chance that a band is stretched or broken inside the transmission.
your clutch may not be fully engaging
It sounds like the clutch is not fully engaging. Most likely this is because of a worn clutch.
Your throw out bearing is the problem.
The first fully automatic transmission was the Hydro-matic, offered in the 1940 Oldsmobile. There were semi-automatics (GM's Automatic Safety Transmission and Chrysler's Fluid Drive) available in 1937.
AnswerIt could be any number of things, such as bands (clutch pack, whatever you want to call it), hydraulic pump, valve body or just plane low on transmission fluid. Unfortunately anything that prevents the clutches from fully engaging. If the clutches slip, even a little, it can cause significant damage to the clutches and the transmission will fail completely. Check the fluid level first. If it's low, make sure it never happens again. The first and cheapest step is to have the computer checked for trouble codes.
Drive the car long enough to fully warm up the transmission. Put the car in "Park", engage the parking brake and allow the engine to idle. Remove the dipstick for the transmission and wipe it clean. Fully reinstall, then remove the dipstick. Note the level of fluid...should be between the "add" and "full" marks, not be dark or smell burnt.
The linkage is not fully engaging the transfere case. The system needs to be moved in and out of 4 wheel drive several times a year to ensure full shifter travel. Check under the vehicle to see if the linkage is stuck. hope it helps. duboff
Starter is not fully engaging or you may have a broken tooth on the flywheel.
Oldsmobile came out with a fully automatic transmission in the 1940 model year.
You haven't really given enough information, but a possible cause might be that the starter is not fully engaging the flywheel when it is starting the engine.
Had problem with 86 Lincoln not shifting properly when cold. I assumed it was because the fluid was thicker and would be more affected by a clogged filter. I had the transmission flushed and the filter cleaned and it worked perfectly from then on.
I fully rebuilt transmission, parts and labor will run you around $3000.