Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) 150,000 mile rebuild time

[manygears]

I just roled 150k on my 94' 2500 4X4. I know I have 1 bad ball joint & trackbar. Since I have to rebuild the frontend, I want to replace my clutch at this time too. So my question is,is this is a do it yourself do. I've heard that the transmission & tranfercase assembly is on the heavy side. Can I do this at home or send it out.

While I'm asking, what a good clutch of choice? I carry a 11' side in camper & pull a 10,000lbs trailer around. What about the frontend too( wheel bearings, tracbar, balljoints,etc).

If I missed anything please let me know. All advise is welcomed

 

[ndurbin]

If your going to tackle the transmission/clutch I would make sure you have a good transmission jack for the job. Other than that shouldn't be to bad. And don't go back with the DC trackbar those things are junk, get a good aftermarket one.



Nathan

 

[Morphious]

Replacing the clutch is a do it yourself job, but I'd have a buddy over to help with the reinstall. I've done it alone a couple of times (transmission jack was a pita to use). Definately seperate the Transfercase from the Transmission, it's pretty quick to do and will save you much cussing material when trying to stab the transmission. I didn't seperate it the first time I put a clutch in my truck, and it was a bear to get lined up, not to mention heavy. You don't need a frame spreader like the manual says to get the cross member out, just a short handled 5lb sledge and some good whacks to get it back where it will drop down. (reverse process to reinstall).



I've had the transmission out three times now myself, 2 clutch replacements (1st replacing stock when modified engine, 2nd when I ripped the Center hub out with 90k miles on it, 3rd when I replaced transmission @ over 200k miles (170k according to speedo)).



If you have a cheap transmission jack like mine, you can get by with it, but I had problems getting the right angles due to the trans being too heavy for the wing nuts that adjust able to hold it at the angle I set. I used a short piece of tubing like a bottle jack handle to work it into the correct angle and got it started, then the jack is useless. Ended up kicking it out of the way and muscling it in the rest of the way, cursing all the while. I am above average in size though 6'4" and 270lbs. If your a twig, might get a couple of friends to help out.



Morph.

 

[pwknapp]

When you mate up the transfer case make sure you clean the surface real good and dry it before putting on the sealant. Overlooked this once and melted 4th after the transmission oil leaked out on a long run.



I sure like my SBC clutch and there are other great vendors also. Put in the clutch at least one hp range higher for when the bomb bug hits. Fill out your profile and some other suggestions may appear. Welcome to the TDR!!

 

[clawson]

Definately give Peter at South Bend Clutch a call. He is a great guy and will tell you what will best suit you. Tell him what you do with the truck and where your power is and where your power will be and he will give you his suggesstions. He has the best customer service in the business and treats everyone fairly. The number there is 1800-988-4345





Chris

 

[MontyDyer]

Concerning the front end, I always go back with MOOG ball joints and Timken bearings and races. I doubt you will find a better ball joint or front end components at that then MOOG.