Posted by Old Guy (216.152.14.87) on April 03, 2001 at 07:44:35:
In Reply to: B&M Shift Improver Kits posted by 3rdMav on April 03, 2001 at 01:24:20:
: I would appreciate any imput on the B&M shift improver kits. I opened up my C4 last weekend with the intentions of installing a kit. I stopped the project when the transmission pan appeared to be filled with VERY dark red fluid and some "foreign" material a.k.a. metal shavings. The local transmission guy tells me that if I'm not careful and install the kit in a new tranny, I have a good chance of splattering the C4. I have a spare C4 out of my donor car that appears to be in much better shape. A new built up transmission here in the Northwest runs about $850.00-$950.00. Your input as always is appreciated.
First of all, installing a shift kit in a trans that has not been rebuilt or known to be in excellant condition, is just wasting time and money. The increased pressures will play havoc on questionable clutches, seals, etc. Sounds like you are able to try a rebuild yourself. A good kit for the c4, runs about 100.00. Depending on the condition of the case and other hard parts, shouldn't run more than 150.00. You already have a spare to work with and with a few basic tools and good book on them, I think you can do it your self. It's not as difficult as most people think. There are a few tools you will need to buy or rent like dial indicator and snap ring pliers, but once you have done a couple trans, I'm sure you can be the one making 850.00, and laughing all the way to the bank. I buy core c4's at the local scrap yard for 20.00 and use them for parts etc. in my race cars. They are one tuff little tranny and weigh a lot less than a c6. My thoughts have always been to learn by doing, but sometimes it may be easier to let someone else do it. Thats an individual decision to be made. Good luck either way, and b;y the way if you email me I can show you how to improve your shifts using nothing but a 15 cent cotter key in the valve body. It works great in my street Mav 302. I don't claim to be an expert, but just like tinkering with stuff for the last 1/2 century and maybe learning new things. Just had a bad exsperience installing a aftermarket intake on the drag Mav, but thats another story and I've rambled on to much already.