VW Microbus 2.3I Transmission problems

Based on the symptoms you described, it is possible that the issue is related to the valve body of the transmission. The valve body is responsible for controlling the flow of hydraulic fluid through the transmission and is made up of various valves and solenoids that regulate pressure and flow.
When the winter drive is engaged, the transmission may be bypassing the valve body and locking into third gear directly, which would explain why it starts in third gear when winter drive is engaged. However, the hard shift from 2nd to 3rd and the inability to shift into 3rd without winter drive suggest a problem with the valve body.
It's also possible that there could be a problem with the transmission control module (TCM) or the wiring and electrical connections between the TCM and the transmission. A diagnostic scan tool can help identify any error codes or other issues related to the TCM.
Given that you have already replaced the 2nd to 3rd shift solenoid without any improvement, it may be best to have the transmission inspected by a professional mechanic or transmission specialist who can perform a more thorough diagnosis and determine the exact cause of the problem. They may also recommend a rebuild or replacement of the transmission if the issue is more serious.

1/. Check your coil fittings to rule anything from coil side of problem.
2/. Inside distributer there is what looks like a small mini coil this may new renewing not expensive Make sure you fit any new part carefully the same as the old fitting. Best Wishes, Malcolm Campbell.

Low Reverse clutch's are burnt or a cracked drum.

Your shifting block in the transmission is not working properly. replace it.

check the linkages. there is a plastic ball in the first link and second link , i think u will find the problem there . Good luck

sounds like it may be either a converter problem or u got some bad clutches in third in the case you need to go to a tranny shop.

most newer vehicles  have transmission control modules,that go to a default of 2nd or 3rd gear when they go bad!  I had a 91 plymouth stuck in 3rd gear because of this module! could be your problem!    when mine went out, it smelled like something electrical burned inside the the passenger cabin! I would check all the electrical connections on the transmission first    good luck   

you need to replace clutch pack for that gear can be ordered seperately from parts store or dealer if you want to save money call peach street auto recycling at 1800-365-2341 for a warrantied used one! also might be time for change trans filter and fluid filter could be slightly clogged but I lean towards clutch pack I replace these alot on Hondas

STOP Downshifting!
STOP Forcing gear change, watch the Engine RPMs and shift accordingly, HOMBRE's are as good as the operator's. Hombre's have dash shift indicators which illuminate when it's time to 'shift' and not before, This has nothing to do with gear oil either. If you've drained it, you best fill it immediately and make sure it's ample level. The heat these gears sustain in is inceredible, cooling lubricant is essential. Here's a tip, while engine is OFF, ignition key is engaged, dash is illuminated, depress clutch peddle, keep it depressed and walk through all gears with gear shift, shifting should be smooth and unpeded, including reverse. If resistance is experienced at one or more gears, gear alignment is off as a result of inproper gear shifting while driving. Continue to drive vehicle just shift slower until clutch needs replacement then do an entire drive shaft upgrade. It worth it, it's great truck.

need to have the shift forks look at in trans sounds like when the pedal is depressed clutch is not comming all the way out also if the clutch is not hydrolic then the clutch cable can be adjusted