Well after trying to figure out why modifications in the video were not the same as the ones in the directions, I went ahead and did it according to the paper instructions. To my knowledge, I went through each step, double checking to make sure I didn't screw this up. Put it back together, the only difference being that I installed a drain plug in the pan towards the rear. Anyhow, after putting in six quarts, I added two more and put in drive and reverse to make sure they would engage. They did. I backed it out of the drive way attempting to go around the block. The 1-2 shift was firm, the 3-4 shift was firm. Stopped at a light tried to accellerate and it felt like it was slipping, but it slopped through the gears. By the time I got home, it was slipping badly. I checked the fluid because it just felt like it was low. I added two more quarts. I then tried to put it in drive and nothing happened, reverse and nothing. Total tranny failure. There were no leaks and it did not smell burnt. When I bolted in the valvebody, I torqued it according the shop manual (in a spiral order). I got no check engine lights. I will be putting it on the scanner tonight to see if there are any electrical problems. But, has anyone ever had to go through this because of a shift kit install??? I'm sort of a pesimist and have already been looking at buying a replacement tranny. I'm still in shock that it only lasted 10 minutes.Any input would be much appreciated.


jurisZ28

 

First off, 10 quarts is WAY to much! 5-6 quarts is all thats needed after installing a transgo, unless you have a huge transmission pan.

One of the most common mistakes is not getting the boost valve snap-ring fully seated in the correct location. There is a "step" and a "groove". Most people get the snap-ring at the bottom of the step and it blows back into the pan.

 

Actually, I started with 6 then went up because it seemed to run like it was low on fluid. I can certainly understand the possibility of that valve blowing out. I remember snaping it into place and then pushing against the spring a few times to see if it would fall. It wouldn't surprize me at all that the little booger is in the pan when I drop it. Thanks for the info.

 

Definately sounds like too much fluid. I've done that before.

 

Sounds like too much fluid to me too, go back and check the level.

 

I understand that its too much fluid. However, the problem started at 6 quarts. At that point, the car wasn't responding in drive or reverse. I then added the fluid as I thought it was low because there was absolutely no response. I'm going to drain and drop the pan tomorrow to see what it might be.

 

You hit the nail on the head. I dropped the pan this afternoon and there it was, the boost valve and all sitting at the bottom of the pan. I reinstalled, making sure it wasn't going to go anywhere, refilled properly, and it worked perfectly. Thanks for the advice.

JurisZ28

 

Glad I could help. Enjoy.