[1969ChevelleGuy]

Hey guys, i was wondering if you could help me with a couple issues. Im planning on running a GM ZZ454 crate motor to a th350 with a shift kit in my chevelle, but i ran into a couple problems while disassembling the TH350. My first problem was the shift lever. The transmission was very old, so the shift lever rod was elevated and burred on the inside end. I naively got frustrated after trying a metal file and twister the thing out with pliers. So now i have a bunch of score marks in the space where the lever rod went. My question is, will it leak? If so, can i fix it?

My next problem is with snap rings. They have been a huge pain in the *** and ive managed to squeeze by until now. The snap ring that holds the sun gear shell to the output shaft is bothering me. Snap ring pliers wont get it out, a hook tool wont, not even a screwdriver. anything else is too big to fit in the confined space. How did anybody that has done this before get by this? The first picture is of the snap ring area. The second is of the scored area. Also, sorry for the wall of text.

[SSedan64]

Make sure the Shaft and Bore is smooth. The Shaft Seal will take care of the leaks.
Long nose snap ring Pliers. Look thru these pages may help>> Page #39 http://th350.netfirms.com/pages/7a2-39.jpg

[oldschool hero]

To get that retainer ring out I use two sharp pointed picks to remove it.Get it to spread just a bit with one and use the other to work it upwards.It is a pain but take your time.The hole for your shift lever dosen't look bad but most master rebuild kits come with a new bushing for it.

[1969ChevelleGuy]

lol i tried all that but its stuck fast...im 3 days at this step, so i said screw it and ordered the matco tool designed specially for that retaining ring on the output shaft. As for the scoring in the lever channel, thats good news that it shouldnt be a problem. thanks for the help!