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From doing searches on this site, I decided I want to install the TransGo Shift Kit #TRG-700 from Summit in my 89 C4. I called several transmission shops in my area but, a lot of them would not install it or asked me why I wanted it installed. The transmission only has 69,000 miles on it. I told them that I wanted firmer shifts but, not neck jerking shifts.
A couple of places said that they could just adjust the line pressure and if they did install the kit it would be anywhere from $275-$475 in labor.
I would install the kit myself but, after doing some searches, I found that a lot of people said they lost 4th gear and they had to modify something to get it back.
Should I try and install the kit myself (I've installed a B&M shift improver kit in another car) or pay a shop to do it right the first time.
I installed a B&M kit in my 700R4 (1986) and haven't had a problem in well over two years.
I've never seen a TransGo kit so I can't give any specific recommendation. My kit had springs and other parts that had to be installed in a very specific way.
If you tackle the job yourself it's imperative that you follow the instructions to the letter. Before you even being, read, then re-read and read the instructions again to become familiar with all the parts/locations involved.
Be sure to keep everything as clean as possible as you work too.
I installed a Trans-go kit in my Impala (now it has a T56), just make sure you watch the tape and read the direction a couple of times before you start. Also, inventory the parts, mine had a drill bit missing. It's pretty straight forward, use the video for a reference, but follow the write direction.
I did the TransGo myself as well. If you can read/follow directions and take your time, you shouldn't have any problems. Before drilling any holes in the valve body, triple-check yourself.
It's a messy job, but well worth it when done! If you decide to do it yourself and need help, we're always here to lend assistance! :cheers:
I put a transgo in my 93 Z28, I went full commando, the firmest shifts the kit delivers, and I loved it. It was not too harsh at all, especially at part throttle, and it full throttle, it would bang 'em! Be sure to torque the valve body bolts on in the right pattern, to the right torque.
I put a transgo in when I had my my tranny out and rebuilt. I did it all myself and as long as you follow the instructions to a "t"...you should not have any problems. But I can't really imagine doing it on my back with the tranny still installed.
One thing to note...the transgo shift has 3 levels of firmness to choose from in the same kit. I went with the middle of the line and I get could tire chirps in 1-2 shift and some 2-3. I think I am going to get back in and put it at the firmest shifting. Good luck!
I did it myself, and it is an involved job, but nothing you can't handle. If you do it, contact TransGo first, and find out what exactly you don't want to change that is in the kit. I did it per the instructions, and had the problem with it not shifting into fourth. It's been so long now that I forget what part it was exactly, but there was a valve or something that I cahnged, that you don't want to change with the Corvette trans. When I called them, I actually talked with the owner, and he was very helpful, but I did have to drop the pan and the valve body again to put the stock parts back in. It seems like it involved a spring, now that I think about it.
I really like the difference the kit made. It's quality stuff.
TransGo is awesome!! I definitely recommend it. I put it in my '94 383 and it made that thing spin the tires when shifting from 2-3rd :yesnod:. GO FOR IT!!!
Im what u call a weekend mechanic, (oil changes, plugs, etc....) Im not the person you would come to do valve job or anything internal.
But I did the TRANSGO shift kit, and like what most everyone said: Read the instructions to a "T" and watch the video. I even bought one of those small portable TV's with the built in VCR so that I could watch the video as I did the job. That was a big help for me.
I installed one in my 96 Impala SS, it takes time, but I went real slow, took about 12 hours over two days. That was 50K miles ago. Still does a great 1/2 tire chirpping shift, very impressive for the out of town business guests.
Yes it probably can be done in one day...if you have all the tools you need and don't need to make 20 trips to Autozone! :lol:
BUUT...TAKE YOUR TIME and read everything that comes with it. You will also need lint free towels(not the red ones) and some vasoline or tranny lube.
Good luck
Sockets, extensions, and an accurate torque wrench, to bolt the valve body back just right. A few pairs of various needle nosed pliers and some good snap-ring pliers are needed also.