I disagree; there's only 1017 parts. :D Find the "GM Transmission Overhaul Manual", by Haynes, at your local auto store (likePep Boys) or
http://www.haynes.com . It shows a picture-by-picture rebuild of the TH-700r4 (and TH-350, TH-400, TH-200-4R). It shows you what the special trans tools look like, and tells you about using the tools.
http://www.trannyman.com was a tool source, not sure if they're still around. There was also an auto trans rebuilder's network on the internet, but I don't have a link- I moved from Netscape to Internet Explorer and forgot to take my bookmarks :(
Do you have the GM service manual (by Helm, at
http://www.helminc.com )? If you don't, find the ATSG service manual for
your year of 700r4 trans. I bought mine for $15 through
http://www.naparts.com - it's basically the transmission section of the GM service manual. It's very detailed and technical, and combined with the Haynes book, you'll know what the rebuild will involve.
I want to rebuild mine. I'm on my 3rd trans, and it's on its last legs, too. I figure if nobody else can rebuild a trans, then I certainly can't do much worse. A friend of a friend rebuild mine as a favor, and I paid for parts only. I saw the receipt, the stock rebuild kit was $120, a new front pump was $80, rebuild torque convertor $100. The parts aren't bad. The labor is.
<a href="https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/search.php?s=">Search</a> this forum for "700r4 rebuild" and you'll find tons of messages. You might find that link for the Auto Trans Rebuilder Network, too.
[edit] My plan is to get a junkyard 700r4, and rebuild it. This way I can keep driving my car around. The trans should be as new as possible, but most of the "longevity" upgrades were done by GM in 1987. So if you get a junkyard trans, DO NOT get an 83-86 700r4. Get at LEAST an 87.