Hey folks,

The trans in my 86 IROC (305TPI) has been bad for a long time, the main problem is that it leaks - especially when not driven on a daily basis. The leak is coming from the cover under the converter, so Im assuming it is the front seal.
In addition it also shifts wayyy too soft.

So, my question is - is it doable to go through this trans myself, or do I have to have pro's do it? I am mechanically enclined(sp?) so I wouldn't mind doing this myself, but I just don't have any experience at all working on a trans.

If this is something that I can do - what all do I need? Any kits you all could suggest?

This is what I'd like to achieve:
- Stop the leak (obviously
- Firm shifts
- General suggested maintenance for a trans with ~100K miles on it.
- Replace the converter

BTW, I already have a new Corvette servo sitting around.

I'd also appreciate some suggestions for a good converter. I never take the car to the track or race any - it is just a fun weekend car.


Thanks for any and all help and suggestions!!


Ken

 

Ken,
If you have a shop manual to fall back on, I would give it a try.
The shift kit of choice is the Transgo 700 2&3.
It is also very complicated to install. If you buy it, buy 2 white accumulator springs to go with it. That will firm up the shifts nicely. Vette sevo is an easy swap. B&M kits are much simpler to install, but are not as good.
I have a local company that hand builds my torque converters. Priced right and excellent quality. TCI and B&M are the common repacement performance converters. I do not like them at all. Too many problems with them.
There are lots of good people here to help and some great info in the archives. Don't be afraid to search the topics of interest....Pete

 

Hey Pete - thanks for your input!

This sounds good to me! I don't have a shop manual, but I'll make sure to get my hands on one before starting. Ebay maybe? Or how about this one?
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...5&autoview=sku

For the TransGo kit - would that be this one?
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...5&autoview=sku

Where can I get the springs you are refering to?

I also noticed that Summit sells a TCI rebuild kit - any experience or knowledge about it? Any other rebuild kits including seals and whatnot neccessary for this rebuild?

You mentioned B&M and TCI tc's not being that great - but are there any other of-the-shelf brands that are decent? Being that I live in Norway, I don't have any local companies in the business of manufacturing these anywhere

Im sorry for all the questions, but I just need some input the get going!
And, yes, I am already reading up on old threads


Thanks again!


Ken

 

Ken,
The book is actually the ATSG service manual, but resold by tci. It is the correct book. They make 2 of them. 1 is for 82-86, the other from 87-93.
I would suggest decoding your trans before ordering parts or manuals. On the passenger side of the case, just above the pan gasket, there is a machined surface with numbers stamped in. You will likely have to shine it up with a piece of sandpaper to see the samped numbers. The code will look like this:
9ydm301a (purely a made up example)
This code will tell you exactly what year trans is in the car now, allowing you to order the correct parts the first time. Post up the code and I will break it down for you.
The shift kit you linked is the kit I was referring to, but with a video and vette servo included.

I am currently working with a guy from england who is about to do the same overhaul you are. He asked me if I would be willing to fly over and help if he paid for the plane ticket
I think he is joking, but if a plane ticket comes in the mail, off I go

 

I got a great deal on the white accumulator springs w/pistons from an ebay seller a couple of days ago. Only $9.99 plus shipping. He also has lots of other 700r4 goodies listed. Here's the link. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...5008764&rd=1,1 The seller's name is ctpowertrain. There's also another seller named oregonperformancetransmission that has good prices on the transgo shift kit and tons of other stuff.

 

Thanks guys!!

Pete,
Im pretty confident my trans is the stock one from 86, but I'll get the code of it and post it here. I have the car stored now, but I'll try to see if I can manage to get it jacked up without taking it out, to get the numbers off the trans.
LOL, if you're already in England - be sure to swing by Norway for a quick rebuild as well

Pat,
Thanks a lot for the link and the leads!!


Ken