Built Trans Rebuild frequency

Aeroking

e.i.
For those running modified transmissions, how often do you send them in for a refresh?

I'm pulling mine now to get freshened up while my truck is parked.

The internals are 8 years & 25k miles old. I had it gone through 4 years ago, and felt that I'm due again. Trans operates fine. When it was gone through 4 years ago the shop said the clutch packs looked good, so they didn't replace them.

So how many miles, or passes do you guys go through before sending your trans back?

Trans is the original SyTy 700R4 4WD. I beat on it every time I drive, and the engine makes 600ft/lbs at the wheels.
 

autoaddictions

Active member
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

I usually send mine after 150-175 passes at the track. clutches are always worn pretty good by then. A refresh is a lot cheaper than a rebuild.. Street driving isn't as bad on the trans so mileage isn't as important to me . Track passes kills the trans!! extra traction boost launches ect.
 
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

If it is setup correctly... then I have seen 450 - 700+ passes with the right torque converter. To do this you should have the nine clutch pack Borg Warner Hi-energy 3-4 setup, Sonnax 2nd apply servo, the "modified" TransGo Performance Shift kit, .500" & .300" boost valves, hardened sunshell, the very late extra wide 29 element input sprag, etc. I have helped many people do this over the years. If you are running NOS, then you should always use the "window switch" to help the transmission live longer, no matter who builds it.
 

Aeroking

e.i.
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

If it is setup correctly... then I have seen 450 - 700+ passes with the right torque converter. To do this you should have the nine clutch pack Borg Warner Hi-energy 3-4 setup, Sonnax 2nd apply servo, the "modified" TransGo Performance Shift kit, .500" & .300" boost valves, hardened sunshell, the very late extra wide 29 element input sprag, etc. I have helped many people do this over the years. If you are running NOS, then you should always use the "window switch" to help the transmission live longer, no matter who builds it.

Thanks. I dropped it off at the shop last week. Should come back with a clean bill of health, for good piece of mind.
 
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

Using the TCS 9/11 billet lockup converter is not a good idea for long life. They are very heavy. A good 9." - 10" torque converter is much easier on the driveline. If you notice the solid motor mounts cause too much vibration, replace the mounts with good rubber mounts and use a "torque chain". This will give vibration at high throttle only. Just some suggestions.
 

Aeroking

e.i.
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

Thanks but no thanks to the rubber mounts and torque chain. That's a hillbilly combo.

I've had the 9/11 for over 8 years and never had problems running one.
 
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

"I've had the 9/11 for over 8 years and never had problems running one." That's good for you, but it is very heavy and the technology has improved from these torque converters of 20+ years ago. For longevity, a lighter and smaller diameter is going to make the transmission last longer with the torque input being equal.
 

Aeroking

e.i.
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

Just got it back. There was a tiny bit of wear on the 3rd gear clutches, but other than that everything was in great shape. Good piece of mind for the next couple seasons.
 

liquidswords88

I pity da fool
Re: Built Trans Rebuild frequency

Running auto flex plates on manual transmission with button clutches is a very common circle track setup. You can go from a 30 pound flywheel clutch setup to 9. The difference in acceleration is quite noticeable. It also allows the engine to stop faster as well, which Aids in braking. There are also couplers available for auto trans. They eliminate the torque converter altogether. It turns the trans into a direct drive. There is a very small clutch pack built into the coupler that allows for gentle take off only, once moving you can shift into high gear. None of this stuff would work in drag racing as it would be destroyed instantly upon a hard launch, it is made to be strong after engaged not during. But it is the same theory as a smaller lighter torque converter. If you have never felt the difference between a light weight rotating assembly and a stock, it would make a believer out of anybody.
 
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