Just curious

[turbo39151]

I am not a mechanic but I usually do all my own work. However, I've never worked on a transmission and have been thinking it's about time to learn how to build one. I've not done too much research on this topic but was simply curious to know if some folks might have a few quick answers.

I was wondering if some of you transmission experts could point me in the right direction as far as what tools are a "must have" and/or what is nice to have but not absolutely necessary and if there is maybe a particular manual that one should use. (I've heard that there was some book from CK that was good)

Additionally, maybe providing an idea of what I can and cannot skimp on when building (ie: hardened parts,etc)

TIA

[turbo39151]

Nobody?

[77 cruiser]

If you are talking 200-4r get the book from CK good stuff.

[turbo39151]

Yes I'm only talking about the 200-4r. I guess I need to source this book. Anyone else want to chime in? I need to know what tools,etc. I should have in my tool box before tackling a trans rebuild...

[Lee Thompson]

Low and reverse clutch housing removal tool. This is the ONLY tool I purchased. I have a few home made tools. There is a video out that if very helpful. Can be found in the back of hot rod magazines.

[turbo39151]

Thanks for the info.

Any particular brand preference for this tool? What is the approximate price I should be looking at?

[SSedan64]

KentMoore brand part # J-28542. Pretty cheap on Ebay when you can find them $20-$40.

Low/Reverse Clutch Or Center Support Remover-Installer
Transmission Videos

[Camfreek]

I do trannys all the time! They are not near as bad as you think they would be, I would get a detailed manual first and read it over a few times before jumping into it Plan on a big mess as well, no matter how much fluid you drain there is always more hiding in there some where, pay close attention to detail and do not force parts out or they will break. Its been a while since I have done a 200r4 but if I remember correctly you have to remove the filter before you take out the front pump!!!! Keep everything real clean and put it on a good clean surface the way you took it out. Pay real close attention to the valve body cause there are check valves in there and they can get lost real easy Soak all the clutch packs in new trans fluid at least half an hour before installing them, never put them in dry cause they won't last long at all. Vasaline works great to hold parts in place in a automatic trans as well Read up and pay close attention and your trans will have years of great reliable service

[turbo39151]

You make it sound easy.

I watched the tech when my GN trans came out and was disassembled. I don't think I had ever seen so many parts and pieces come out of such a small enclosure. After all of those clutches and steels and misc. parts it kind of scared me away.

After doing my own work on nearly everything else, I've mustered up enough courage to attempt this. I just don't want to mess it all up and frankly, I'm tired of being at the mercy of the transmission shops because no matter how much I bluff, I think they know that I don't know enough to understand all of the intricacies.

I have a bone stock trans on one of the cars that feels like it's starting to slip slightly so I figured there's no time like the present. Just a complete rebuild with a mild shift kit to firm it up a bit... Sounds simple but I anticipate a disaster.

I've seen rebuild quotes from $2k -$3k. I know that there are various hardened parts available. I don't have a race car but would like to be handle a good amount of power just in case. Is there anything in particular I should be looking to do? (Ie: stuff I can skimp on and stuff that is a must)?

Thanks to everyone who has been responding. This is really very helpful to me.

[SSedan64]

Good links for Rebuild Info

200R4 Rebuild

Answer Question

ATTENTION!!!! NEW VERSION!! Strengthening The 2004r

First time rebuilding and strengthening a 2004r

TH200-4R Rebuild - Dynotech Performance - GM High-Tech Performance

[gsgns4me]

Originally Posted by turbo39151

I was wondering if some of you transmission experts could point me in the right direction as far as what tools are a "must have" and/or what is nice to have but not absolutely necessary

TIA

A few things that come to mind.......... a lip seal tool, a band clamp to align the pump halves, at least one bushing driver and install tool for the pump bushing (if you're friendly with tech you mentioned, let him show you the correct way to remove/install this bushing ). If you don't want to purchase a tool to compress the piston springs, you can get creative with stuff you probably already have. Some threaded dowels to help install the valve body are handy. Something to clean parts with (don't forget to clean the inside of the case).