[Shotimes] ATX symptoms (semi OT)

[van Oss]

I marked this "semi OT" because the SHO wagon still has its 3.8L/AXOD
drivetrain with 115K.  Wondering about keeping it on the road until I can do
the drivetrain swap.

The AXOD tranny has these symptoms:

-- When cold, it does not want to shift out of 1st.  Once it warms up, it
shifts smoothly.

-- When cold, coasting as we approach to a stoplight, it will clunk hard
(downshifting 2-1, perhaps?)

-- Local tranny shop says fluid is a little burnt, and they can't get it to
downshift for passing.  (Haven't had a chance to try that myself.)

I don't know beans about ATXs.  Does this sound like a tranny needing a
rebuild?  Or might I be able to get by for another few K-miles by just
swapping the fluid?

VO