Transmission on 93 T Bird - HELP!

[MensaCat]

Hi,

I've got a 1993 TBird LX 3.8 liter V6 automatic

I expect having difficulty with it at it's advanced age, but this current problem has got me wondering...Up until about 1 year ago, it's been running fine. In the past year, it's had the same problem: Throw it into drive, hit the gas, and the engine just revs for a few seconds, the car won't move. Then it'll suddently kick in and go forward. Same happens in reverse. Often, when it does kick in, the car takes off with enough force to squeal the tires (neighbors must just love me).

This same thing also happens whenever I go to take off from a stop, or whenever the brakes are used (like at lights and stop signs, that kind of thing).

Brake fluid seems ok, although the fluid has admittedly never been changed since I've had the car (I know this is probably a big no-no), and I'm ashamed of that fact. I've always been right on top of the car's needs in every other dept.

Think it's time for a new transmission? I've been driving an 05 Taurus that my Dad had but didn't want, as I don't want to strain my poor Bird. dad wants me to junk the car, but getting rid of my beloved Bird is NOT an option.

Any advice? Thoughts? I want this car to live again!!