Torque converter install, need help deciding which shop...
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On The Tree
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Torque converter install, need help deciding which shop... So I've decided to to just do a torque converter install as opposed to my original cam+TC install. I'm going to wait for the cam post-college. My dilemma though is with which shop to take it to. I live in the middle of Illinois and the only F-Body speed shops are up in Chicago. I've got it down to two, Shops A and B.
A has all parts and labor cheaper. However they will not install shift kits which I originally had in the quote. I've been reading and really want the nice quick firm shifts the kits provide. However it will cost me about $600 more to go to B.
B will install the shift kit and all other parts, but as stated it costs $600 more.
I have to choose between one or the other but need help deciding from someone who has a shift kit. Would it be worth it to go to B.
A has all parts and labor cheaper. However they will not install shift kits which I originally had in the quote. I've been reading and really want the nice quick firm shifts the kits provide. However it will cost me about $600 more to go to B.
B will install the shift kit and all other parts, but as stated it costs $600 more.
I have to choose between one or the other but need help deciding from someone who has a shift kit. Would it be worth it to go to B.
Last edited by Z28SLPCAMAROZ28; Jul 17, 2013 at 11:33 PM.
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From: Ann Arbor, MI
It does take a few hours to install a shift kit, but not $600 labor.
For now, I would suggest installing just the Sonnax 4L60E-LB1 boost valve (about $30) which will give some of the benefits of a shift kit and shouldn't take a trans mechanic more than 5 minutes to install. Some shops have it in stock, any can order it from their distributor for next day.
For now, I would suggest installing just the Sonnax 4L60E-LB1 boost valve (about $30) which will give some of the benefits of a shift kit and shouldn't take a trans mechanic more than 5 minutes to install. Some shops have it in stock, any can order it from their distributor for next day.
Thread Starter
On The Tree
Joined: Jul 2012
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It does take a few hours to install a shift kit, but not $600 labor.
For now, I would suggest installing just the Sonnax 4L60E-LB1 boost valve (about $30) which will give some of the benefits of a shift kit and shouldn't take a trans mechanic more than 5 minutes to install. Some shops have it in stock, any can order it from their distributor for next day.
For now, I would suggest installing just the Sonnax 4L60E-LB1 boost valve (about $30) which will give some of the benefits of a shift kit and shouldn't take a trans mechanic more than 5 minutes to install. Some shops have it in stock, any can order it from their distributor for next day.
I just wanted to know if the shift kit makes that big of difference. I don't want to spend 2,000+ and not have the biggest difference possible in the way it drives.
I'll have to ask about that Sonnax part as to whether they will do that.
Thanks for the info.
Thread Starter
On The Tree
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TC install A-350 B- 425
Deep Trans Pan A-165 B-190
Transcooler A-79 B-255 ??? I didn't understand the huge price difference there, however the 79 once comes with all the tubing and is the same rad so idk.
Trans fluid A-30 B-60
Rear End Girdle 160
Rear end fluid A-30 B-18
Rear End Girdle install A-50 B-85
Trans cooler install B-75
B only as A doesn't do shift kits
Shift Kit 150
Install 150
Basic Tune 150
Does that seem like a good price for everything?
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Verdad Gallardo Thread Starter
On The Tree
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Curiosity, what is keeping you from installing it yourself?
Thread Starter
On The Tree
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As for the install of the torque converter, I'm not a mechanic. I don't trust myself with it. I'd rather take the $350 hit and know it's done right, than do it myself and worry every time I'm driving it. This is my DD and I cannot afford to have it be out of commission. As per my OP, I'm not out of college yet and I'm doing this with some of my summer job money. I cannot afford to try this myself.
Do you know when a billet cover is needed?
There are 2000hp cars running non billet converters.
It isn't needed.. Common misconception on tech.
Spend the extra cash if you're set on it though..
There are 2000hp cars running non billet converters.
It isn't needed.. Common misconception on tech.
Spend the extra cash if you're set on it though..
Op, You don't need a deep pan, and the price for changing the gear oil is stupid. Seriously, 2 quarts of any 75/90 or 80/90, a bottle of gm additive, a hand pump, and 20 minutes you can do it yourself. Some of those prices seem a bit high to me but I've never had a shop do any work on my car so idk what things cost. N
Impossible to make a recommendation based on price alone. Without knowing warranty, reputation, names of shops, etc...any guess is just a crapshoot. Seriously, pick up a slightly used converter here and there is no need for a deep pan or shift kit if you are on a tight budget. High price doesn't automatically mean quality but on the other hand low price doesn't mean inferior.
Thread Starter
On The Tree
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I'm not looking for which reputable shop to take it to in terms of warranty, names etc. They are both good reputable shops. My question is should I take the $600 hit and take it to the place that will do a shift kit for me or is the shift kit really that necessary saving $600. From what I'm reading it doesn't seem like it so I will end up taking it to A. I will take the deep pan off if it isn't necessary. I'm not a tight budget, I just want to make sure it gets done right.
Thanks for all the replies.
Thanks for all the replies.