[70camino]

I bought this '65 Chevy, hauled it home on a trailer, and took it apart for a body off restoration without driving it. The previous owner didn't mention transmission problems, but I would like to check out the powerglide transmission before reinstalling it in the car.

I'm thinking about taking the powerglide to a transmission shop for a routine service, which would included pulling the pan, an oil change, etc.

I don't know a lot about automatic transmissions. My question is: can a knowledgable transmission specialist tell the condition of the unit by looking inside with the pan off? Or is disassembly necessary?

David

 

[Atlfan]

Hi,

My trans had been sitting for a few years and I didn't know if it would stand up behind my new motor.I took it to the best transmission shop in my area and asked them to rebuild it and the guy asked how I knew it needed rebuilding ? I said I didn't but wanted to make sure it was strong and problem free when I put it back into the car.He said for $85.00 they will go through it and tell me what it needs and that money will be credited towards any work to be done and that I shouldn't spend the money ($750.00)for a rebuild if it doesn't need it.

 

[Oldani Motorsports]

Pull the pan. If there is any debris in there, take a closer look. If it is dark grey and metallic, then pull the trans apart. If is just a light dusting of clutch material, do not worry IMO. If you overhaul it, use good friction materials and band in it, and why not replace the cast iron high gear clutch hub with a steel one too so it will never break. Look at the front pump closely for wear at the gear area. IMO, with a high-mile trans any time you have it out why not have it looked at, it will sure make life easier than later when you have it all together and in the car!