Advice on LBZ trans rebuild

[JSimmsy]

So I've always done all my own work on engines and everything else, but never rebuilt a trans. My LBZ has hit the limit where it will no longer hold and I've been looking for a core to rebuild so I wouldn't be down the truck in the meantime.

I found a "remanufactured" LMM (yes I know I have to swap bell housings) out of an 08. Guy said he put about 300 miles on it and it was never right. Pulled it out, found a used one then sold the truck.

The only info I have is he said it wanted to push through the brakes at a stop sign and got hot on him.

I'm assuming the lines and cooler were never changed as the stock style lines are still on this trans but have been cut off.

So my question is, what's my worst case scenario for this rebuild with those issues? Could the pump be bad? Any particular signs I should look for?

I also attached a picture of the output shaft, is this wear normal?

Just trying to get my bearings about me before I call Evan or someone else to order a kit.

Thanks!

 

[Chevy1925]

Heres your problem, you will be able to rebuild it but you wont be able to diagnose an issue when it comes up. Starting out with a problem trans is a good way to set yourself up for failure.

 

[JSimmsy]

I don't disagree. But it's a casual (although expensive) project that I have the luxury of time.

Just looking for points of interest.

I did take the pan and converter off today. Found burnt, almost black, fluid. Shavings but no chunks. Definitely some clutch material.

 

[Ron Nielson]

I rebuilt a trans some time ago. I asked for some pro help from a local shop. The shop told me that there could be problem signs that I very well may miss and flub the rebuild. It's kind of like putting rings on a piston. If you understand the key things to look for, it's easy to do it correctly. If you just try to put them on with no knowledge, you are very likely to flub the job. It's easy to install a brake caliper, even upside down. If you do the job yourself, be careful, there are lots of similar parts; details matter a lot. And my trans turned out very well, due to the help I received.

 

[Bdsankey]

Realistically I am betting that trans has a hung valve in the VB or a failed clutch pack that's welded "on". I do agree, for a first-time rebuild it is always best to start with a known working transmission.

I'd be more than happy to help on the parts/build support front but I only support our/Goerend kits, I do not support anyone else's kits.

 

[PureHybrid]

Unless it's a retran from Allison, hard to tell what level of quality rebuild it was and what parts were actually replaced. Finding a core is good as that gives you plenty of time to wait for an answer when you run across something strange. Personally I wouldn't worry about it giving the previous owner issues.

Where in Ohio are you located? I'm close to Zanesville if you need a hand or parts

 

[JSimmsy]

Realistically I am betting that trans has a hung valve in the VB or a failed clutch pack that's welded "on". I do agree, for a first-time rebuild it is always best to start with a known working transmission.

I'd be more than happy to help on the parts/build support front but I only support our/Goerend kits, I do not support anyone else's kits.

I'll be reaching out to you as well when the time comes.

The stuck valves were definitely high on my check list. How many issues will the "welded on" clutch pack cause me?

 

[JSimmsy]

Unless it's a retran from Allison, hard to tell what level of quality rebuild it was and what parts were actually replaced. Finding a core is good as that gives you plenty of time to wait for an answer when you run across something strange. Personally I wouldn't worry about it giving the previous owner issues.

Where in Ohio are you located? I'm close to Zanesville if you need a hand or parts

About 30 min east of Canton. Near alliance area.

I appreciate that.
You have store a website?

 

[PureHybrid]

About 30 min east of Canton. Near alliance area.

I appreciate that.
You have store a website?

No I don't have a website, and I'm not a supporting vendor of this site. I just offer my advice / lend a hand whenever there's a member in the area. If you're not looking to push a bunch of power you can put together parts a lot cheaper than what you'll find most kits listed at online

If you're looking to support a vendor on this site and get a "kit", your cheapest bet is probably Brad @ K&D Service. Inglewood is another option and they offer full support with kit purchases

 

[JSimmsy]

No I don't have a website, and I'm not a supporting vendor of this site. I just offer my advice / lend a hand whenever there's a member in the area. If you're not looking to push a bunch of power you can put together parts a lot cheaper than what you'll find most kits listed at online

If you're looking to support a vendor on this site and get a "kit", your cheapest bet is probably Brad @ K&D Service. Inglewood is another option and they offer full support with kit purchases

Ah gotcha.

I dyno'd at 500/1100 before the trans gave up holding power and it flatlined on the dyno sheet after I got it back together. I've been meaning to do a "journey" thread with my truck with what I've done. It's set up to go compounds in the future, so built trans for sure.

 

[Bdsankey]

Ah gotcha.

I dyno'd at 500/1100 before the trans gave up holding power and it flatlined on the dyno sheet after I got it back together. I've been meaning to do a "journey" thread with my truck with what I've done. It's set up to go compounds in the future, so built trans for sure.

Sounds like you've got a decent roadmap set out!