DIY How To Install TransGo Shift Kit 4T65E Very Detailed+Pictures

I could agree with that. I wouldn't mind having 1-2 beefed up as much as the 2-3 is. I'd recommend it a bit firmer if you like firm shifts. I do and I would like it a little firmer.

And I can agree, higher mileage 4t65e's often shift like crap. Our impala recently developed slow shifts (116k), it needs help for sure. Its probably how the GP with 171k shifts. The up shifts used to be like you had a shift kit before it got worn out.

Don't even get me started on how it downshifts stock at about 3/4 throttle, so sad... I was gonna pass someone in the impala and I was waiting...and waiting, come on! lol. Almost a safety issue in my book. The shift kit will take care of it, just have to find time to put it in.

My transmission is a little biased because I've got more done to it to help the shifting, so I couldn't really tell you what a "stock" transmission would shift like. I've got some holes drilled out a bit in the separator plate, the Sonnax Performance Line pressure boost valve, and tighter clutch stacks. Nothing really major, but it all adds up. I can say that when I originally threw together this transmission is still had the DIY shift kit in it (1\2" spacers on top, 3\4" on bottom, and a 2-3 accumulator spring in the 1-2), and after I installed the Transgo kit there was a HUGE difference.

Great thread!

4t65e vs 4t65e HD

Is this the same kit?

Sent from Browns country

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Originally Posted by jimzssei

Great thread!

4t65e vs 4t65e HD

Is this the same kit?

Sent from Browns country

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YEP! (I asked the same question.)

Thanks for the input Fish!

Sent from Browns country

Hi guys, I am going to be doing this shift kit soon. I notice TransGo sells 1-2 & 2-3 accumulator pistons together. On their website they say they are more durable than the stock ones that "wear out prematurely". Do these need to be replaced? I didn't see any mention of you using new 1-2 and 2-3 pistons so I'm not sure if it's necessary. My tranny has 48k miles on it and no malfunctioning going on besides that I want to firm up my shifts.

No you shouldn't have to replace them, I don't often see them get scored or anything. Especially at that mileage.

Thanks for the great write up! I wasn't sure if I wanted to try this to my 2000 Buick Lesabre with 188,000 miles. It was slamming pretty hard when going from park to reverse or drive and also shifting very mushy. Repair shop wants $2500 to rebuild, so I installed today and man it shifts great. I might do this to my 2005 Monte Carlo because I'm so impressed with the results. The only tricky part was getting the lines all the way inserted, but not a problem at all. Now I have to do the upper and lower intake manifolds and I'm not looking forward to that!
I dont own a Pontiac, but I registered just to say a sincere Thank You to 02 Navy Blue for taking the time to make this write up. Good Karma for you, Brother.

Thanks for the comment, I'm glad it helped you out. Also it doesn't matter if you own a Pontiac or not, were all just w-body/3800 guys here. Lots of info on here for any more things you may need to know.

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Originally Posted by 02NavyBlue

Thanks for the comment, I'm glad it helped you out. Also it doesn't matter if you own a Pontiac or not, were all just w-body/3800 guys here. Lots of info on here for any more things you may need to know.

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We are not all 3800 guys here. I can assure u of that :p

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Yup soon I will have an LQ4.

Sent from my Galaxy Far Far Away

02NavyBlue,

Thank you very much for this write-up! I successfully installed the TransGo shift kit by following your instructions. I also performed the fluid exchange in the manner you specified. It's a completely different transmission than it was a few hours ago.

@02NavyBlue or anyone

Do you highly encourage to get the differential lube line retainer? I got my shift kit today and tranny filter last week and am anxious to install it. From rockauto its like $10 to ship a tiny little piece of metal to where I live and would have to wait about another week.

Have you checked ebay/amazon for cheaper prices on it?

ebay has only one that is selling for $18. Amazon does not have any. The rest of the websites that are the selling them want $10 or more for shipping.

Ohh i see

The part itself is nice and cheap but you get hosed on shipping for how small it is.

Yeah they get you with shipping. I paid 6 something to ship all 3 to my house. It would have been cheaper for 1, but really they're so small, a few additional shouldn't even up charge.

I'd only recommend it, but it's up to you. As long as you understand why we use it.

Just wanted to say thanks. I just put the kit in my trans along with the diff tube clamp. Went a lot easier than I expected.

I mostly did this because I was getting that "slip then catch bang" when pulling away from a stop light. Not sure if the kit will really do anything for that issue, but so far so good. (fingers crossed)

I have the retainer for the diff line and there is also a clamp on 2 of the 3 other lines.
I just did the Intense kit over the weekend.