TomP

The title says it all... I'm getting sick of this 2nd rebuild of mine acting up. I think I'll give my own try at rebuilding a junkyard 700r4- I can't get any worse off! I've read the books, it seems like I can do it- it'll just take me a while.

But, how would you guys do it, excluding the torque convertor?

Would you buy a performance rebuild kit, like the B&M Super TransKit? (I don't know of other brands.)

Or, would you put in a stock rebuild kit, a TransGo Shift Kit, and a TransGo Reprogramming Kit?

Or, can a better-than-stock rebuild kit be assembled by buying individual pieces? I don't know if it's possible... but maybe it's better to buy a separate clutch pack set, and a separate 2-4 band, and different sprags- you know, like they sell for the TH-350 & Powerglides?

Would you add the 'Vette servo, and 0.500 boost valve, and similar pieces- or would you leave 'em out, since another kit has taken care of them? Would you replace the fluid pump completely, or can it be rebuilt with more sturdy parts for the same amount of money, and a little work? Are there any updates available... as in, say I can only find an '86 tranny- can I turn it into an '87-up or a 89-up 700r4 (minus the aux valvebody)?

My original idea was to rebuild the trans with the B&M TransKit, and maybe add the Corvette servo if $$ permits, and be done. But maybe I can get better results for less money, and the same effort. See what I'm asking? Thanks in advance!

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-Tom P (Hot rodded 1986 Firebird 2.8l)

[This message has been edited by TomP (edited August 21, 2001).]

Superman

Check out pro-built.net They sell rebuild kits.

transfixleo

If you want it to last, skip the B&M stuff. Center the build around the TransGo parts. As for a 'Vette Servo, I use a 553 (V-8) Servo in my V-6 Camaro and it shift nice with the TransGo Jr. Shift Kit. It is the original tranny W/136K and the converter is shuddering so I will finally have to rebuild it BUT, no matter what I see in it, I KNOW I don't have to change any frictions- they do not slip.

TomP

I didn't know you had a V6 also! Hey, what's the deal with GM putting a thin sprag & spacer on the V6 700r4, but putting a thick sprag on the v8? (I forget what the sprag's for...)

The B&M kit I mentioned is the full overhaul kit (clutches, 2-4 band, seals, etc). Should I skip it and just use a stock rebuild kit? I don't have any arguments about that; the B&M kit is almost $300- and since I have the 2.8, I don't really need a high-hp-capable trans. The most the trans should ever see is probably around 250 HP (135 stock HP, with mods, and a 90 hp nitrous kit).

Does Transgo make a full overhaul kit? Is that Transgo Jr Shift kit the "fix" kit, or the reprogrammer?

Thanks!


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-Tom P (Hot rodded 1986 Firebird 2.8l)

ryn28

iTrader: (1)

I've had too much aggravation with the 700R4. One was rebuilt good and then after that one it was all over. Now I have a real built one and some of the same problems persist. It's just not the best tranny and the gear ratios are too far apart. Next time I'm going with a 2004R from a GN or Turbo T/A. Can be built much stronger, better gear ratio spread, and I can still have an O/D. Just something to think about before spending too much cash on that unit. I won't build up another one.

TomP

That's why I want to rebuild one myself; I know of guys who have 700r4's lasting forever behind v8's- yet I have a v6 and am on my 3rd 700r4.


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-Tom P (Hot rodded 1986 Firebird 2.8l)

Mojo

Tom,

Don't feel like the lone ranger! I just blew my 4th 700R4. I've pretty much decided on a 6 speed conversion...

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408cid 1985 Corvette
http://www.mojosgarage.com

transfixleo

ALL of the sprags were the same for a given year, not just V-6's. It is just that since the V-6 almost always has lower rear gears the sprag wear out faster. The best sprag I have seen is the 4L60E but you have to use the correct O/R clutch hub. The first ones had problems when they used the regular 700 type so don't just throw one in it's place. If you have the early 'thin' sprag then you need to change the races anyhow.

TransGo doesn't sell an O/H kit but just get a TransTec kit and all B/W Frictions. I like the 4L60E 3-4 pack too but it also requires knowing what to do to make it fit as it requires a different Input Drum than you have.

You may want to use the Reprogramming Kit since youi will be hitting it pretty good. I would also get the Shift Kit too since it will have better shift timing with it. ALso, don't use the solid Servo setup but rather use the double inner springs from the Shift Kit. The solid setup can easily put you out of control on slippery pavement and is just too rough (not a good rough!). Also, get a TruCool cooler and bypass the radiator. THat little converer will generate allot of heat. With the nitrous you will have to get a better converter too. Probably not much different in stall just stronger. Try Chris at Continental (here's a secret, that's who TransGo uses when they do special stuff).

Pro Built Automatics

I carry the Trans-Go 700-2-3 Performance Shift kit, .471 or .500 main boost valve, .296 intermediate/reverse boost valve, Corvette servo with the new updated Viton seals, the late sprags, 3-4 updated Borg Warner clutch pack, and anything else you might need for this unit. Call me if I can be of help at 800 7763288 Mon-Sat 10-6 PST.

Nordbert

www.transonline.com/electroPublisher has a
few tips you might find helpful.

87tpi420

all i can say is..i know nothing about trannys...but art carr guaranteed mine for atleast ten 1/4 mile passes at 1000 hp

when it does go.... i get a 6 speed

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87 z28 bowtie aluminum 420small block dry sump crower lt. wt. knife edged crank oliver lt wt rods brodix track 1's super ram intake slp 1 3/4 headers accel dfi art carr 700 r4 3.42 gears ssm sub frame/ladder bars.....other parts on the way ,soon to be finished!! couple more weeks!!!

http://people.ne.mediaone.net/gdm

transfixleo

"but art carr guaranteed mine for atleast ten 1/4 mile passes at 1000 hp"

and the check is in the mail, I promise not to....