Freshen up the tranny
 

Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to take
it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not really
sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this, but
what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be included
or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
makes a difference to anyone.

I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle we
took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put it
in.

How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends some
on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It has
been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

"Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
take
> it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not really
> sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this, but
> what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
included
> or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
> makes a difference to anyone.
>
> I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle we
> took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put
it
> in.
>
> How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends
some
> on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It has
> been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
>
>

Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked out.
My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in the
donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail, but
it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked which
caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch plates.
They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild if
you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades. The
special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part for
you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress this
piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.

If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a leak
check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front and
rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper band
and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for leaks
which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse and
kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they are
hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2 hours
from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get an
idea of cost.

One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is crap
because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal clutch
and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than normal
wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it as
is.

HTH
Chris

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

"Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
take
> it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not really
> sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this, but
> what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
included
> or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
> makes a difference to anyone.
>
> I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle we
> took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put
it
> in.
>
> How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends
some
> on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It has
> been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
>
>

Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked out.
My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in the
donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail, but
it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked which
caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch plates.
They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild if
you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades. The
special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part for
you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress this
piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.

If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a leak
check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front and
rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper band
and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for leaks
which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse and
kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they are
hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2 hours
from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get an
idea of cost.

One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is crap
because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal clutch
and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than normal
wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it as
is.

HTH
Chris

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

"Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
take
> it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not really
> sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this, but
> what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
included
> or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
> makes a difference to anyone.
>
> I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle we
> took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put
it
> in.
>
> How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends
some
> on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It has
> been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
>
>

Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked out.
My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in the
donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail, but
it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked which
caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch plates.
They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild if
you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades. The
special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part for
you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress this
piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.

If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a leak
check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front and
rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper band
and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for leaks
which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse and
kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they are
hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2 hours
from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get an
idea of cost.

One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is crap
because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal clutch
and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than normal
wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it as
is.

HTH
Chris

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

Thanks Chris. All good things to keep in mind.

I think I'll have it checked out since we only drove the donor vehicle
around the block once or twice before tearing out the tranny. I guess I'd
rather spend a few bucks now than take it out again in 2 months. Not sure
if it leaked or not either.

"c" <c@me.org> wrote in message
news:lfDgb.19688$832.10840@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
>
> "Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> > Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
> take
> > it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not
really
> > sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this,
but
> > what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
> included
> > or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
> > makes a difference to anyone.
> >
> > I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle
we
> > took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put
> it
> > in.
> >
> > How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends
> some
> > on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It
has
> > been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
> >
> >
>
> Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked
out.
> My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in the
> donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
> dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
> Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail, but
> it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked
which
> caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch plates.
> They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild if
> you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
> second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
> included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades.
The
> special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
> compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part
for
> you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
> adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress this
> piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.
>
> If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a
leak
> check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front
and
> rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
> transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
> this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
> check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
> transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
> that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper band
> and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for
leaks
> which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse
and
> kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
> clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they are
> hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2
hours
> from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get an
> idea of cost.
>
> One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is crap
> because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal clutch
> and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
> then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than
normal
> wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
> properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it as
> is.
>
> HTH
> Chris
>
>

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

Thanks Chris. All good things to keep in mind.

I think I'll have it checked out since we only drove the donor vehicle
around the block once or twice before tearing out the tranny. I guess I'd
rather spend a few bucks now than take it out again in 2 months. Not sure
if it leaked or not either.

"c" <c@me.org> wrote in message
news:lfDgb.19688$832.10840@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
>
> "Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> > Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
> take
> > it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not
really
> > sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this,
but
> > what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
> included
> > or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
> > makes a difference to anyone.
> >
> > I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle
we
> > took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put
> it
> > in.
> >
> > How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends
> some
> > on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It
has
> > been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
> >
> >
>
> Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked
out.
> My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in the
> donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
> dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
> Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail, but
> it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked
which
> caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch plates.
> They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild if
> you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
> second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
> included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades.
The
> special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
> compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part
for
> you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
> adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress this
> piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.
>
> If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a
leak
> check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front
and
> rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
> transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
> this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
> check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
> transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
> that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper band
> and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for
leaks
> which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse
and
> kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
> clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they are
> hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2
hours
> from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get an
> idea of cost.
>
> One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is crap
> because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal clutch
> and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
> then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than
normal
> wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
> properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it as
> is.
>
> HTH
> Chris
>
>

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

Thanks Chris. All good things to keep in mind.

I think I'll have it checked out since we only drove the donor vehicle
around the block once or twice before tearing out the tranny. I guess I'd
rather spend a few bucks now than take it out again in 2 months. Not sure
if it leaked or not either.

"c" <c@me.org> wrote in message
news:lfDgb.19688$832.10840@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
>
> "Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> > Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
> take
> > it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not
really
> > sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this,
but
> > what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
> included
> > or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if that
> > makes a difference to anyone.
> >
> > I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the vehicle
we
> > took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I put
> it
> > in.
> >
> > How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that depends
> some
> > on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It
has
> > been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
> >
> >
>
> Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked
out.
> My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in the
> donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
> dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
> Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail, but
> it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked
which
> caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch plates.
> They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild if
> you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
> second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
> included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades.
The
> special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
> compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part
for
> you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
> adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress this
> piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.
>
> If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a
leak
> check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front
and
> rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
> transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
> this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
> check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
> transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
> that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper band
> and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for
leaks
> which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse
and
> kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
> clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they are
> hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2
hours
> from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get an
> idea of cost.
>
> One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is crap
> because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal clutch
> and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
> then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than
normal
> wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
> properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it as
> is.
>
> HTH
> Chris
>
>

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

I like to change the front seal when I have the transmission out, no matter
what. This is much cheaper than changing it with the transmission in the
vehicle. Murphy's Law applies to front transmission seals. The rear seal
is real easy to change out of the vehicle too. It's easy to change it in
the vehicle, but if it goes bad you still get a puddle in your driveway.
Ditto to the rest of what Chris said.

I rebuilt one of these things about '79 or '80, and it was pretty
straightforward as I remember it. It even worked once I put it back in the
vehicle. :o)

Earle

"Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:uWEgb.62$e86.81141@news.uswest.net...
> Thanks Chris. All good things to keep in mind.
>
> I think I'll have it checked out since we only drove the donor vehicle
> around the block once or twice before tearing out the tranny. I guess I'd
> rather spend a few bucks now than take it out again in 2 months. Not sure
> if it leaked or not either.
>
> "c" <c@me.org> wrote in message
> news:lfDgb.19688$832.10840@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> >
> > "Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> > > Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
> > take
> > > it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not
> really
> > > sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this,
> but
> > > what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
> > included
> > > or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if
that
> > > makes a difference to anyone.
> > >
> > > I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the
vehicle
> we
> > > took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I
put
> > it
> > > in.
> > >
> > > How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that
depends
> > some
> > > on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It
> has
> > > been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked
> out.
> > My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in
the
> > donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
> > dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
> > Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail,
but
> > it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked
> which
> > caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch
plates.
> > They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild
if
> > you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
> > second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
> > included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades.
> The
> > special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
> > compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part
> for
> > you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
> > adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress
this
> > piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.
> >
> > If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a
> leak
> > check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front
> and
> > rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
> > transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
> > this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
> > check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
> > transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
> > that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper
band
> > and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for
> leaks
> > which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse
> and
> > kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
> > clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they
are
> > hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2
> hours
> > from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get
an
> > idea of cost.
> >
> > One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is
crap
> > because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal
clutch
> > and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
> > then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than
> normal
> > wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
> > properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it
as
> > is.
> >
> > HTH
> > Chris
> >
> >
>
>

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

I like to change the front seal when I have the transmission out, no matter
what. This is much cheaper than changing it with the transmission in the
vehicle. Murphy's Law applies to front transmission seals. The rear seal
is real easy to change out of the vehicle too. It's easy to change it in
the vehicle, but if it goes bad you still get a puddle in your driveway.
Ditto to the rest of what Chris said.

I rebuilt one of these things about '79 or '80, and it was pretty
straightforward as I remember it. It even worked once I put it back in the
vehicle. :o)

Earle

"Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:uWEgb.62$e86.81141@news.uswest.net...
> Thanks Chris. All good things to keep in mind.
>
> I think I'll have it checked out since we only drove the donor vehicle
> around the block once or twice before tearing out the tranny. I guess I'd
> rather spend a few bucks now than take it out again in 2 months. Not sure
> if it leaked or not either.
>
> "c" <c@me.org> wrote in message
> news:lfDgb.19688$832.10840@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> >
> > "Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> > > Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
> > take
> > > it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not
> really
> > > sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this,
> but
> > > what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
> > included
> > > or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if
that
> > > makes a difference to anyone.
> > >
> > > I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the
vehicle
> we
> > > took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I
put
> > it
> > > in.
> > >
> > > How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that
depends
> > some
> > > on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It
> has
> > > been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked
> out.
> > My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in
the
> > donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
> > dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
> > Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail,
but
> > it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked
> which
> > caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch
plates.
> > They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild
if
> > you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
> > second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
> > included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades.
> The
> > special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
> > compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part
> for
> > you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
> > adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress
this
> > piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.
> >
> > If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a
> leak
> > check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front
> and
> > rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
> > transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
> > this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
> > check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
> > transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
> > that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper
band
> > and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for
> leaks
> > which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse
> and
> > kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
> > clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they
are
> > hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2
> hours
> > from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get
an
> > idea of cost.
> >
> > One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is
crap
> > because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal
clutch
> > and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
> > then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than
> normal
> > wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
> > properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it
as
> > is.
> >
> > HTH
> > Chris
> >
> >
>
>

Re: Freshen up the tranny
 

I like to change the front seal when I have the transmission out, no matter
what. This is much cheaper than changing it with the transmission in the
vehicle. Murphy's Law applies to front transmission seals. The rear seal
is real easy to change out of the vehicle too. It's easy to change it in
the vehicle, but if it goes bad you still get a puddle in your driveway.
Ditto to the rest of what Chris said.

I rebuilt one of these things about '79 or '80, and it was pretty
straightforward as I remember it. It even worked once I put it back in the
vehicle. :o)

Earle

"Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
news:uWEgb.62$e86.81141@news.uswest.net...
> Thanks Chris. All good things to keep in mind.
>
> I think I'll have it checked out since we only drove the donor vehicle
> around the block once or twice before tearing out the tranny. I guess I'd
> rather spend a few bucks now than take it out again in 2 months. Not sure
> if it leaked or not either.
>
> "c" <c@me.org> wrote in message
> news:lfDgb.19688$832.10840@twister.rdc-kc.rr.com...
> >
> > "Kevin Sperle" <ksperle@nospam.hotmail.com> wrote in message
> > news:WUBgb.2848$b74.20112@news.uswest.net...
> > > Getting prepared to do my auto tranny swap in my CJ. I was wanting to
> > take
> > > it in first and have it checked out or "freshened up", but I'm not
> really
> > > sure what to ask for? I know most tranny places do service like this,
> but
> > > what exactly are they doing, and what kinds of things might not be
> > included
> > > or should I watch out for? It's a TF727 out of a Grand Wagoneer if
that
> > > makes a difference to anyone.
> > >
> > > I'm 95% sure the tranny is fine (it seemed to drive fine in the
vehicle
> we
> > > took it out of), but I want it to be checked out/cleaned up before I
put
> > it
> > > in.
> > >
> > > How much should I expect to pay for the service (I suppose that
depends
> > some
> > > on my location), I thought my friend got his done for around $125. It
> has
> > > been removed from the vehicle so labor should be cheap.
> > >
> > >
> >
> > Be sure you go to a reputable place if you're going to have it checked
> out.
> > My personal opinion is if it doesn't leak anywhere and it ran good in
the
> > donor vehicle, then use the trans as is. The Torqueflight is a very
> > dependable transmission as is. I just rebuilt one for my friend's Dodge
> > Challenger which had been sitting for many years. This trans did fail,
but
> > it was from sitting. Some of the piston seals had dried up and cracked
> which
> > caused the pistons to not apply the correct pressure to the clutch
plates.
> > They ended up burning up. These transmissions are quite easy to rebuild
if
> > you are mechanically inclined, but it is not for everyone. This is the
> > second trans I have rebuilt so far. Total cost for parts was $140 which
> > included a full rebuild kit, a rebuild service manual and some upgrades.
> The
> > special tools required are some snap ring pliers and a clutch piston
> > compressor. The compressor is not needed if you have a shop do that part
> for
> > you. I had one here that was designed for another transmission that I
> > adapted to work for the Torqueflight. Most trans shops will compress
this
> > piston and install the snap ring for you for a few bucks.
> >
> > If you feel the need to have it checked out, you should have them do a
> leak
> > check on the transmission which involves sealing off the vent, the front
> and
> > rear seals and the cooler ports. Then about 10psi is applied to the
> > transmission through the case vent and it is checked for fluid leaks. If
> > this checks out, then the seals and gaskets are all good. They can also
> > check clutch and band operation, but this involves opening up the
> > transmission and removing the valve body. There are pressure apply ports
> > that air is applied to. This will allow the shop to check for proper
band
> > and clutch piston actuation. They will also check the piston seals for
> leaks
> > which is simply an audible test when the air is applied. The low/reverse
> and
> > kickdown bands can be visually inspected at this point as well. To check
> > clutch condition requires a teardown of the transmission because they
are
> > hidden deep inside the case. The whole job shouldn't take more than 2
> hours
> > from a good trans shop. so figure the labor rates for your area to get
an
> > idea of cost.
> >
> > One word of warning. Do not let the shop tell you the transmission is
crap
> > because there is a black powdery residue in the pan. This is normal
clutch
> > and band wear. If the trans fluid is bright red and doesn't smell burnt,
> > then chances are the clutches and bands are probably fine other than
> normal
> > wear. In summary, like I said earlier, if the trans shifted and operated
> > properly, and doesn't leak, I would simply change the fluid and use it
as
> > is.
> >
> > HTH
> > Chris
> >
> >
>
>