Is the Direct Clutch, Clutch Backing Plate cupped?

[Blown&Injected]

Yep, It's me again.

The book says to install the clutch backing plate into the Direct Drum with the "micro finish" side facing the lined plate.

It seems obvious which side is the micro finish because it is polished. I also noticed that all the lined plates coming out of the Direct Drum were cupped and the material worn completely off down to the metal on several sides. I examined the Clutch Backing Plate and found it to cupped as well. It looks fine otherwise, not burned or cracked. I don't know if the plate assumed the shape of the worn clutches or if it is supposed to be that way???

Thanks Again,

[chris718]

there should be witness marks where the snap ring that holds it in was eliminating a screw up unless someone was in there already.the plate should be flat all the way across the clutch surface and a slight chamfer is usually visible where the teeth enage in the drum on the down side.

[WE4]

How did you make out?

Bruce
WE4

[chris718]

steve what size was the washer ?is it fwd drum to output shaft or the front planet to snap ring metal washer?

[Blown&Injected]

Hi Chris:

In another post I asked the board about getting a 3-2 control valve spring and you offered to send me one - thanks!

I sent you an addressed and posted envelope for the 3-2 control valve spring just to make it easy for you, after all you are doing me the favor. I then learned, after measuring the rear end play, that I need a thicker washer than was in the trans. So since I already had a package ready for shipping, I asked if you could get a selective washer for me?

None of the trans warehouses, or dealerships, stock these washers. I need a # 6 (brown), rear selective thrust washer. - The one that goes on top of the Front Internal Gear (part/Ill no. 631 in the ASTG).

If you have one, I would appreciate it if you could just put it in the same package I recently mailed to you for the 3-2 control valve spring.

I'll call to confirm today,

[Blown&Injected]

Originally posted by WE4
How did you make out?

Bruce
WE4

That sucker was cupped big time! So the local Buick dealer ordered on for me - another 3 days

It is hard to believe that backing plate would assume the shape of the worn clutchs because it is so much thicker than the other plates in the drum. Seems like it would show other signs of wear like getting chewed-up and burned.

[Hawaiian Turbo]

Hey Steve, are you rebuilding your trans with just the manual or do you have other means? I'm almost done with my rebuild and was just wondering. I found out I need a new pump, found a cracked rotor. I just hope it works when I'm done!! I was thinking a video would be a good guide also.

Thanks, Paul

[Blown&Injected]

Hi Paul:

I am using the ASTG and the help from this board. I was thinking about getting the video, but it seems that with the great help here, the only other item necessary is the ASTG.

The only real problem I'm having is finding some of the parts like selective washers, clutch backing plates, and some of the smaller hard parts.

I am spending hours cleaning and inspecting each and every piece finishing with a good wipe of trans fluid. Test fit each part to be sure everything moves just as it should, and measuring twice - sometimes more.

If the trans does not work, I will have no idea what could have been done different to make it right.

Post your results when you are done.