[31rdster]

Hi,
I have decided to try and build a 200-4R transmission. This will be my first automatic rebuild. So far I have purchased an ATSG manual and a technical video on the rebuild. This transmission will be installed in a 1964 Chevelle with a mild 400 small block. The engine is making approx. 350HP and 400 ft.lbs of torque. The car won't be raced and will not be getting much abuse. I would like the trans to have nice firm shifts and be very reliable. I don't mind spending the bucks for parts, but don't really want to go with alot of overkill on this. What parts/modifications (clutches, servo, hard parts, valve body kit, etc) would you recommend for this transmission? Also, it looks like I can either improvise/make most of the special tools required. What special tools are a "must have" for this job?

I appreciate any recommendations you can provide.
Thanks,
Mike

[BOBCRMAN@aol.com]

I would not advise a GM overdrive trans rebuild for ANY first timer. There is so much "updating" and revisions done that even the "Pros" have nightmares over them.

If you insist. They have drum problems. Pump problems. planetary problems. Check this site for parts and other information. www.chperformance.com/2004r_Hardparts.html

Get a good shift kit (I use Transgo).

http://dragtrans.com/racing-transmissions.html

[31rdster]

Hi BOBCRMAN,
Thanks for the input. I didn't realize these were so difficult. Maybe I should rethink my decision. I thought that if I had enough info it could be done. I am still considering giving it a try though. I am starting with a fully operational 2004R from a 1986 Monte Carlo SS.
If I do decide to stick with it can anyone provide the info requested earlier. And, if anyone with no transmission experience has rebuilt their own would you please comment on how your rebuild went.

Thanks again for any insight you can provide.
Mike

[ronb]

the 2004r does require a special tool (unique to that tranny) to remove the low reverse input drum! pick up a haynes manual rebuilding GM automatic transmisions at your local autoparts store! good luck!

[Crosley]

Originally posted by ronb
the 2004r does require a special tool (unique to that tranny) to remove the low reverse input drum! pick up a haynes manual rebuilding GM automatic transmisions at your local autoparts store! good luck!

there is a tool that makes things waaay easier to remove & install the center support

[SirVette]

Since

Originally posted by 31rdster
The car won't be raced and will not be getting much abuse.

and you have

a fully operational 2004R from a 1986 Monte Carlo SS

then you might want to change fluid & install. While I agree it needs to be strengthened, a mechanic friend (auto. trans. rebuilder) installed one in a heavy 60s Rivera!

[stu]

On the other hand if you decide to rebuild it yourself and it works the rest of life will be a real snap.
Even if it doesn't, just look at the experience you will have gained.
Read very carefully before attempting this transmission.
Then if you decide to do it there are many on this board who will assist you.
Myself included.

[lamothe1]

Keep your work area VERY clean and as you remove parts lay them out in order and take note of which side of thrust washers goes to item it is against, it's easy to get them in backwards

[Robinson Robin]

Originally posted by lamothe1
Keep your work area VERY clean and as you remove parts lay them out in order and take note of which side of thrust washers goes to item it is against, it's easy to get them in backwards

I couldn't agree more...keeping everything in order will save you more head aches than you can imagine. Its all to easy to get over zelous and madly pull the guts on and finish up with a pile of mixed up parts. I was guilty of this more than anyone with the first few trannies I did, thank got I was fortunatly enough to be working with a very skilled tranny guy that could get me out of the mess

[jakeshoe]

Another method is to stack the parts as you pull them out in the converter.

The whole main drive will be stacked in order, you can clean one subcomponent at a time, reassemble, re-install, and then move on to the next subcomponent.

[31rdster]

Hi,
Thanks to all for the suggestions. Sorry I've taken so long to reply, we've been out of town for the holidays. After reviewing the ATSG manual and other technical articles etc. I've decided to try the rebuild. Like stu stated, it will be experience gained. It will probably be a couple of weeks before I get my parts together and get started but I look forward to it. I will probably be asking some questions during the build and will keep you posted on the progress. Thanks again for all the input and ideas.
Mike

[jakeshoe]

Mike,
I get alot of parts from www.bulkpart.com

Very good prices, pretty good selection, etc..

Another vendor I've used, usually for specialty parts but he will also provide excellent tech support is Chris at www.CKPerformance.com

He told me he could match or beat the bulkpart price on a complete kit....

I've also used Transtar before.

Good luck...

I have the 4L60-E out of my wifes ride at the moment...

[Ghetto Jet]

This may help you.

Whenever I take something apart that has lots of pieces I take pictures with my digital camera, the pictures really can be helpful.

[jakeshoe]

Digital pics are helpful...

Here's a few for ya, just to give ya an idea...

http://www.nastyz28.com/ubb/Forum12/HTML/006380.html

Note,
this was purely for functional explanation, not assembly. I did not use any thrust washers, so don't assemble off this... LOL

Use an ATSG manual. I've never used one but the instructional videos would probably be well worth the money.

[31rdster]

Hi,
Thanks for the tip on bulkpart.com Jake. It looks like they have some good prices on their stuff. Also, that is a great write up on the inner workings of the 2004R that you did. A picture is worth a thousand words! I had planned on taking digital pictures along with detailed notes during disassembly. Hopefully, the pics along with the ATSG manual and all the help from yourself, and all the other experienced transmission guys on the board, I will have a successful rebuild. On another note, I have already purchased the video on rebuilding the 2004R and think it is an excellent source of info for the first timer.

Thanks to all for the tips, words of encouragement, and advice. I appreciate everyones willingness to help with my project.
Mike