727/518/618 case cut for a JW ultra bell - update

[ntstlgl1970]

I wish the tools came with the kit, but I'm a tool junkie so I don't mind buying tools.....Actually I wanted to ask, on the direct drum, the instructions from TCS don't mention how many springs to run for the piston return. The stock one had 9 which I assume isn't enough. I have a good selection of springs, should I run all the springs in this application? TCS sells a kit for this which has all the spots occupied but I didn't see the point in spending another 50(!) bucks for return springs since I don't think they are anything special. I don't mind spending the extra money to build this thing right the first time, I did a similar swap in a 66 mustang (302FI/AOD) I used to have and I went the cheap route on the trans, ended up replacing it 2x - learned my lesson.......

[tactransman]

The number of return springs has to do with the direct clutch clearance, more clearance /less springs the tighter clearance /more springs. Always put at least 12 springs in.Tighter clearance/15. If your shift kit comes with the direct clutch apply passage orifice that helps also, probably get away with just 12 with the orifice

[ntstlgl1970]

ok, that's what I needed to know. I'll figure it out once the shift kit comes in.

[tactransman]

Also never ,ever use the wavey snap ring out of the direct drum pack(it breaks often). Replace it with a flat forward one.(selective)

[ntstlgl1970]

I was going to ask about the wave snap ring on the other clutches (Overdrive Direct and Brake) too. If I can replace them with a selective snap ring, is it ok to do so? I'd much rather have a reverse clunk than a 2-3 runaway shift any day! (Can you tell I've broken that wave snap ring before?)

[tactransman]

Overdive direct has to be a waved , yes it breaks often too, just replace with brand new and you will be fine.
Overdrive brake (flat and wavey together) I haven't seen broken to this day.

[ntstlgl1970]

ok, good to know, looks like I'll be firing up the sawzall tonight!

[ntstlgl1970]

the sawzall comes out tomorrow. going to pull the 727 out of the car and start measuring for the converter, cut the bell off my spare 727 case and then cut the bell off the 618. On the trans fluid, would you recommend the ATF+4 or can I run something else, or does it even matter anymore. Mostly to soak the frictions so I can start building clutches.....

[tactransman]

ATF 4 is fine,Dexron is fine too.

[ntstlgl1970]

With the selection of steels and pressure plate I have for direct, I end up with 6 frictions @ about .068 - .070" with all spring pockets filled. The instructions that came with the TCS drum said that I should adjust the clearance if I end up with over .060" but I have to wonder what combination is going to eliminate between .008 and .010" of clearance? My thought is to run it the way it is. What do you think?

[tactransman]

On a 6 clutch pack set up in a 618 with a Cummins and 12 springs , I usually set it at .090/.100. In my opinion that should be OK with the orifice installed in the apply port.

[ntstlgl1970]

Now that I have the direct drum sorted out, go to check the clearance between the forward clutch drum and direct and guess what? no clearance  Turns out not one of the forward clutch drums I have has the wide chamfer to clear the aluminum direct drum, so I ended up getting the forward clutch drum from TCS as well.  I guess I won't be limited on friction though with 6 in the direct and 5 in the forward, I'll send pics soon, looks pretty.....

[tactransman]

It's only money.............................right?   

[ntstlgl1970]

Something like that. I have the 727 that was in my car out, but I didn't want to tear it down to see if it had the wide chamfer drum since the trans will be my backup just in case. Now I have two pretty aluminum drums that I'll never see again (hopefully) once the trans is in the car

[ntstlgl1970]

Wow, guess I haven't worked on this in a while......I needed a mock up block and didn't want to spend $400 for a plastic one from Pay-r, so I got an old block of mine back from a friend (don't worry, I didn't cut up a new block) Once I finish lightening this up, I'll mock up the 618 case in the car with the engine and see what is needed. I can *almost* pick the block up by myself now......