C5 4l60E need some advice

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Feb 12, 2023 | 10:36 PM

JamesPerconte

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Heel & Toe

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C5 4l60E need some advice

Hey guys,
Being a new c5 owner, and a newbie, I learned some much using this forum. Thanks so much. But, I could use some advice. My c5 has 180k, and does not shift 2/3, it’s an Automatic. Could this be an easy fix of replacing the solenoids, and the value body? Or should I consider a rebuild due to the mileage. Or swapping with a used.
No codes are present on the DIC regarding the transmission. Shifts to reverse no problem and 1/2 is no problem. 2/3 slips and never engages, I don’t know how long this is going on. Mostly likely the reason they dumped the C5 and did not want to invest in a retail mechanic to fix the issue.

Feb 12, 2023 | 10:49 PM

billschroeder5842

Zen Vet Master Level VII

Joined: Mar 2016

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From: Southlake, TX

You did not mention a budget but a rebuild is optimal. If you find a low mileage use, that is a solid second choice.

You need to consider how long you will own the car. With 180 on the clock, you will start to have little things go wrong and maintenance will be a constant.

Feb 13, 2023 | 07:37 AM

JamesPerconte

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Quote:

Originally Posted by billschroeder5842

Thanks for reply, considering I just purchased the C5 as a project, I’m not sure how long I will own her. But, the intent is to fix her up and have some fun! My budget? Well, that’s a great question. Honestly, I was hoping for easy fix, but I know better than that. Trannys are never an easy fix. And I’m sure dropping and swapping
will be no easy task either.

Feb 13, 2023 | 02:03 PM

grinder11

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Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesPerconte

It wouldn't hurt to drop the pan and have a look inside. Depending on how long it's been slipping, it may be just a weak solenoid in the valve body. If the fluid doesnt smell burned, and is a nice red color, you may have caught it in time, and a redone valvebody and solenoids may fix it. So much depends on how its been used before you bought it, and how long its been slipping. My 4L60E has almost 140,000 miles on it, and it still works fine. 180,000 miles isn't a death sentence, but it's not new anymore, for sure. Problem with a trans shop is this: Theyre rebuilders/swappers. If you take it to a trans shop, they see the 180k miles, and they wont mess with it. Theyll want to yank it and do a total rebuild, which isnt all bad, either. But if (granted, a BIG if) it was fixable with a different/rebuilt valve body, youre spending more $$$ for a total rebuild thats maybe not needed. Best of luck

Feb 14, 2023 | 01:55 PM

Missileboy

Burning Brakes

Joined: Dec 2022

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From: Nappytown MD

are you sure the level is correct? Maybe lift her up and open the fill plug and make sure you have the proper amount of fluid? It could be that simple-then go deeper if that is not the case.

Feb 14, 2023 | 10:12 PM

JamesPerconte

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Missileboy

are you sure the level is correct? Maybe lift her up and open the fill plug and make sure you have the proper amount of fluid? It could be that simple-then go deeper if that is not the case.

yes, there is a procedure for checking the fluid. I knew she was low as there is a leak. We raised her up level, and with the engine running at OT. We added about 1/4 to 1/2 quart. Does not seem like a lot to be honest. I thought it would have need more.

Feb 14, 2023 | 11:43 PM

Kingtal0n

Safety Car

Joined: Oct 2007

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From: South Florida

Whatever you do, don't go local for a rebuild. Use probuilt automatics (700r4l60e.com) IMO

Feb 15, 2023 | 01:57 PM

grinder11

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Quote:

Originally Posted by JamesPerconte

If 8-16oz was all it was down, you're fine. I also agree with Talon. Stock local rebuilds are fine for grocery getters. But if you're going to all the hassle of yanking the trans, I'd go with a pro like RPM, Finish Line, Gear Star, etc. Very few people have anything negative to say about RPM (Rodney P. Massengale). Best of luck to you..