Without having the J-xxx tool mentioned in the service manual, anyone know how to pull the front pump out of a 4L80E, I guess it's the same as a TH400?

I need to drill a small hole in the pump body and install a spring to increase line pressure and converter clutch rpessure according to instructions that cam with a PI 9.5" 3-disc Vigilante converter. I don't want to have to buy a $150 tool for a one time deal.

 

From what I remember, you make your own slide hammers. Thread a few long bolts in to the pump, slide some weights over 'em. Then put a washer (or a few thick ones ) over that, and put a nut on the end of the threaded rod. Then either work all the weights simultaneously to pull the pump out, or work one at a time.

And this is only my guess, if I'm completely wrong, someone feel free to correct me! I never tried this so if you damage your pump, it's not my fault! But I think this is how you avoid that $150 tool.

 

Heres a message that might help: https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...threadid=53603

 

Actually, with the Pan off you can gingerly pry the pump forward once the bolts are out. Let me ask you this: What have you done to fix the inevitable high line pressure spike that WILL break something? I just did one today with the Direct Piston broken. This is so common that we keep three of them in stock at all times. They alternately break: Case, Valve Body, Servo, etc.

 

Thanks for the tip!

I also ordered a Transgo Reprogramming kit that supposedly cures those problems.

"Ends direct clutch burnup. Holds BIG horsepower. Holds 1st, 2nd, and 3rd to any speed. Backshifts to 3rd, 2nd and 1st at any rpm. Prevents broken case and drum due to high pressure."



If you have any tips or suggestions,etc on how to get this thing to live behind my engine, I'd certainly appreciate it. I'm no transmission technician obviously and my experience is limited to installing shifts kits, converters and changing the filters, etc.

 

1000 FT-LBS, HOLY CRAP! Man thats gonna be a blast when you get it all to work. 4l80's are strong trannys (rating of 440ft-lbs, i think) but 1000 ft-lbs is really gonna be pushing it.

 

You may be charting new territory there. Stock applications have been known to twist and crack the Input Shaft. At very least when the time comes also install the TransGo High Temp Ring Kit. That is much more than it is rated for so keep us posted on it. I know the ol' 400 when built properly has been known to handle WAY more than it was rated at. Good luck!

 

If any of you have seen John Meaney's twin turbo C4 Corvette, he's pushing almost 1300hp through a built up 4L80E. When I saw his car, that's when I decided to use the 4L80E.

I just recieved the Transgo reprogramming kit yesterday, and it mentioned the High Temp Ring kit. I think I'll order that on Monday while I'm at it.

Also, what are you opinions on Kolene steels and upgraded clutches etc. I am told the direct clutch is the week link, but I've also been told to run stock composition clutches/bands/steels becuase the upgraded stuff grabs so hard that it breaks hard parts and drivetrain.

Thanks again!

 

By all means, use the latest factory Borg Warner High Energy Fricitions and Kolene steels along with the "turbulator" steels for the O/D and Overrun. You may also want to use the TransGo Vacuum Controlled Pressure System. It eliminates possible electrical glitches. I don't know what you are using as far as power adders go and that might be a problem as it affect Vacuum signal.

 

Transfixleo,

I really do appreciate your help. It seems the standard answer when it comes to tranny's is to "see a professional".

I've got nothing against giving a pro my business, but I like doing things myself,as a hobbiest, plus I can't seem to find a professional locally. I've been buying all my stuff from bulkparts.com, but you've helped me out and I appreciate it , could I contact and order the stuff I need from you, if you tell me what I need?

I am trying to get a 4L80E to live behind a twin turbocharged SBC 427. It makes 1200hp/1000ft lbs, 770 ft lbs at 4000rpm. I am using a TCI/FAST T-Com programable transmission control unit. I also have a Precision Industries Vigilante 3200rpm, 3-disc 9.5" lockup converter, along with 3.55 rear gears, and a 3400lb chassis weight.

I'm not sure what you mean by "turbulator", but I will order it through you if possible, or elsewhere if you are willing to clarify(part numbers). I have not heard of the Transgo Vaccum Controlled Pressure System, if you can give me the part number or if I can order it through you, I'd appreciate it.

Bascially, I just need to know what I need to do to get a 4L80E to live reliably behind a 1200hp/1000tq twin turbo SBC 427 , in a street driven application with a 3200 rpm lockup converter, 3.55 gears, and 3400 lb vehicle weight. If you own your own shop give me a telephone # and I'll call/email you.

 

Transfixleo,

I was wondering if you saw my response/questions.

I ordered the High-temp, low-shrink ring kit. I found the turbulator Kolene steel clutches in the Alto catalog. Would you recommend using the Red Eagle friction clutches? Also, regarding bands, I was told that Kevlar lined/relined front/intermediate bands should not be used on the street. Any thoughts?

The Transgo Reprogramming kit mentions that the direct clutch is the weak link with the 4L80E, but the kit increases it's torque capacity 300%. Do I still need to replace the frictions and steels?

Thanks!