64 TH400 refresh

[Matti Roth]

 Next task with my 64 DeVille project is to check TH400 condition. Gearbox came with the car but was already removed. It is 64 but not possible to say if it is the original to this car as there is no VIN stamped like in later gearboxes. And again we have one-year-only part, so I hope no need to replace mechanical parts. I got 64 gasket kit already but probably will need some more rubber for inside parts.

Two bolts from extension housing were so corroded that they broke when opening, otherwise no damages yet. O-ring in filter was not properly in place, and was cut actually. Modulator is not holding vacuum so need to be replaced. Governor valve is stuck, I hope cleaning will solve that.

I will clean all parts and replace gaskets, and other parts if necessary. Oil was very clean and red inside but I think oil has been changed or added not long time ago. 
 I can see that 64 is slightly different from 79 which I repaired year ago. All hints and advice are highly appreciated. Shop Manual is in heavy use.

[Matti Roth]

I did not notice that but will check! Thanks Mark.

[Matti Roth]

Rear band is ok, I took closer look. 

[Matti Roth]

I opened governor, cleaned the valve and it started to move like it should.

It seems that control valve assy gaskets for 64 are difficult to find. Need to search more. Luckily I got gaskets out in good condition so I can use the old ones if new ones not available.

[24ro8f5mbs2jc]

Matti, I know you bought parts from TA Motor before and they might have what you are looking for now.

However I have bought gear box parts from MrMechanic. He had stuff that no other had. So try him.

When TA doesn't have the parts they recommend BA Motors for used parts, but usually BA don't post the stuff on the website. Call or email them is a better bet.

There is also a chance American Cars scrapyard in Osby might have something, maybe not for the gear box but for other parts.

Finally, Hortlund could very well be your savior. I got tires for my -87 Buick and -64 Cadillac from him.

[Matti Roth]

Big thanks, Anders! Looks like I will get all I need from Björn in MrMechanic.

Tack så mycket!

[Matti Roth]

Valve body is easy to check and clean with help from Shop manual. Dismantling, cleaning, checking, assembly with atf oil. One dirt accumulation was found inside 1-2 shift valve.

I use ultrasound washer for cleaning metal parts.

[Matti Roth]

Testing detent solenoid with 12V power.

[Matti Roth]

Oil pump gets new bushings and seals

[Matti Roth]

Thanks Tony

I do this slowly and carefully, trying to follow Shop manual and selected youtube videos together with great advice from this 63/64 community. I have made smaller repairs for decades, but year ago I first time repaired  TH400 for my 79 Seville. And last year I started rebuild of 429 for my 64 DeVille, first V8 I have ever built. These old beauties are quite simple without electronics. I have M.Sc degree in Mechanical Engineering, so I am not afraid to touch these big animals even though I have no working experience in that field. I must say I enjoy repairing these even more than driving.

[Matti Roth]

Rear support has major deformation after 57 years. Only 65 tmls driven but already in such poor condition. Luckily new ones are available.

[Kurt]

Yes. These mounts usually get soaked with oil, transmission fluid, etc. leaking from the engine which deteriorates the rubber then they collapse flatter than a pancake. After you replace it and your motor mounts, your driveline angle will be corrected which will reduce vibration and noise in the driveline.

[Matti Roth]

I am happy that I took the time and checked all friction plates in all clutches. 4 out of 5 friction plates in forward clutch had lost almost all of their friction material!  There were some scrathes and wear in steel plates as well as a result of metal touching metal there. Interesting that all plates in other clutches are in great condition. I need to replace all 5 friction plates and 5 metal plates in forward clutch.

There is one good friction plate in bottom of the photo to see the difference

It would have been really bad surprise to find this out when transmission and engine will be on first drive after installation. I have no idea if the gearbox was working at all before it was removed from the car, probably was slipping quite a lot.. I am happy I found this out at this stage.