94 Grand Prix Se Transmission

I was recommended to this site by B_Lieder at turbotbird.com. My Brother has a 94 grand prix se with the 3.1 and his transmission wont shift out of 1st gear. He had a shop check it (he lives in a college town so he called me). They diagnosed it as a shift reactor and that it would cost 1200 dollars all said and done. Ive never heard of a shift reactor. They also gave him the option of a used transmission for $250 to $350, before install. Could it be something else? Hes lucky to afford rent and college so he doesnt have 1200 just to burn, any help would be GREATLY appreciated.

Huey

What trans. is it ? I would imagine he means the shift solenoid.Iwould take it to another Trans.shop and get another estimate.

I dont know the parts number for the trans, all I know is that its an automatic.

Probably a TH-125 or 440-T4. They had the problem of a stuck throttle valve in the 90-94 grand prixs that would cause the car to upshift late or not at all. Or it could be a bad ground connection for the solenoid. Also a problem on 91-94.

thanks for your help, Ill check that as soon as I can.

Huey