I've got a 2002 with the slush box, but really want to do engine mods. Nothing major like turboing or supercharging. But simple stuff like intake spacers, bigger throttle body, VIAS block off plate and delete, etc. I just don't know if it's worth modding modding an A/T.

Now I have to get the tranny replaced because of the failing solenoid pack and a slipping clutch pack from 1st to 2nd. Still, with a good transmission, will it hold up to a total 270hp? I don't want to have it be replaced again, yet I don't want to do a 6spd swap.

In your opinion, would you still do the light mods?

 

I have an '02 max with all the mods you mentioned, and the gains are there....also I dealt with that tranny slip for almost a year, it got better after I added headers, and even more so when I switched my tranny fluid to Amsoil about a month ago. I still have a valve body with the transgo HD shift kit which was going to be my next move if slip didn't get any better, but for now i'm satisfied with the way she's running...will be getting a tune done soon as well, but since she isn't my daily, not really a priority at the moment

 

Rebuilt trannies - Peter Venuto JR. (856) 582-1100
Post #12 in parts listings for 5th gen.

 

Thanks, but I'm only looking to spend $500 max for a tranny since I gotta pay to get swapped in as well.

 

If you run the price new it's over $3,000.
There are several TSB's attached to that job!
The mods?
I don't know if those will burn up your new trannie.

 

This is the best way to track down a used part. http://car-part.com/

If you're having the tranny replaced it may be a good time to look at replacing the rear main seal on the engine. It's still adds to the work but with the tranny out you're most of the way there.

There are a lot of members here who have modded autos. An extra 20 or so HP shouldn't hurt anything. It's still going to spin the tires when you launch so it's not like you're hitting it any harder where it counts. From a roll it won't be a big deal. Even if you pick up 20+ HP it's only around a 10% increase.

 

your gonna want a a shift kit at the least but, having it rebuilt by someone who knows 5th gen auto trans is a mod in and of it's self because good a rebuilder can make it better than stock with a standard master build kit, with special attention to detail and some light machine work.

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!

I'm looking to fix mine up, if i'm lucky i'll find a low mileage VLSD for 400-700 USD, or cost of used one, plus master rebuild kit + HD2 shift kit. So I'm thinking $1K spread out.

 

Sounds good, thanks. I'll see the added cost to changing the rear main seal.

I've been searching that site constantly for a tranny, but my only concern is that if I bring in my own transmission to get swapped in rather than the mechanic finding one, I won't get a warranty. Like if he found one and swapped it in and it started failing a few days after, I feel like he'd take it back and put in a new one. Whereas he's not responsible if I supply it to him. The only way I'd supply my own trans is if it has less than 100k miles, but shipping is gonna shaft me.

 

I know going for a full rebuild is best, but I don't plan on racing all the time. Just have fun when I want to.

 

A mechanic will not warranty the labor on a part you bring him if it's bad. Doesn't matter if the part is new or used.

The mechanic should warranty the labor if he gets the part but he's probably going to charge 15% over his cost it.

 

That's the dilemma I'm having. Choosing to either supply the tranny or pay extra for him to find one so I get a warranty.

 

definitely get the shift kit. i got an IPT rebuild kit in my trans too. shifts firm & crisp. i love it.