I want to rebuild my 700-R-4 myself. What is a good rebuild kit for all perforance for cheap? And any pointers about doing it? I was thinking about putting a trans cooler on it when I rebuild it. What do you guys think about that? And what else should I do? Thanks.

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'89 TA GTA
HOMEMADE K&N INTAKE
3" CATBACK TO A FLOWMASTER
EDLEDBROCK STB THAT DOESN'T FIT
MSD COIL AND 8.5MM WIRES WITH AC RAPIDFIRE PLUGS
SOON TO HAVE HOOKER HEADERS COATED WITH JET-HOT

 

JC Whitney sells what they call a heavy duty high performance transmission rebuilding kit. It contains Alto red frictions, steels, all gaskets, seals, and rubber parts, and a Trans Go 2&3 shift kit with 3-4 release springs. It's good for a basic rebuild and it costs $190.
You will need two different types of clutch spring depressors which can be made if you're good at stuff like that. Also needed are snap ring pliers, an inch pound torque wrench, basic tools, and a manual like an ATSG. Don't re-use the old converter, at the least have it cut open, flushed out and rebuilt.
A cooler is always a good idea.
This is about the cheapest way that I know of and it uses quality parts as well.

 

Does this kit come with instructions?

 

Instructions are included only for the shift kit install, if you don't know the 700R4 you should consider a book. JC Whitney also sells the automatic transmission service group (ATSG) manual. Pay close attention to clutch clearances recommended by trans go and not ATSG.

 

Also, hunt down Haynes' "GM Transmission Overhaul" manual. You get a picture-by-picture teardown and rebuild of the 700r4! (You also get the 200-4R, 350, and 400 transmissions as a "bonus".) But definately get the ATSG book too! You can also get the ATSG book thru http://www.northernautoparts.com if you're not a JCWhitney fan.


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-Tom P (Hot rodded 1986 Firebird 2.8l)

 

I bought a GM service manual for mine off of Ebay. I haven't started the rebuild yet, but the manual makes it look pretty easy. I'm sure the manual is just trying to get my hopes up...