I got done with rebuilding my Torqueflite 31RH transmission on my 88 Dodge Dakota Sport 4x4 and I'm working on the NP231 transfer case. While I'm sure I rebuilt the transmission correctly, I'm just wondering if there's a way to test it along with the original torque converter to make sure the two are functioning properly and are ready to be installed into the truck. Also, could I test the transmission with or without the torque converter by jurry riggin something up to where I can spin them up with an impact or drill, something like that?

 

I would ask why you rebuilt the trans.... If it is because it failed in some fashion, then re-using the original torque converter is a VERY bad plan. Chances are real good the only thing you will accomplish there, is getting the chance to rebuild your trans, again..... It simply is not possible to flush all the crap out of the t/c, and that will end up getting circulated into your fresh rebuild.... Just a bad idea. Spend the money on a NEW torque converter, and avoid spending the money to rebuild the trans again.

 

I did the rebuild because the truck was clunking real hard when sifting from park to any drive gear the truck had and it would lunge when shifting up while in drive. Part of the problem could've been the truck idling up high cause the smog pump is missing and I don't know what sensors work & what don't but the truck was leaking transmission fluid real bad and when I popped it open, the clutches inside the transmission were cooked. But I still could've drove it no problem.

 

I would still replace the torque converter. Consider it cheap insurance.....

 

Well, I don't really got the money to replace or rebuild my torque converter plus I'm just making sure the truck last long enough til I can put a built transmission & torque converter in the truck. But do you know of any places I can go and get my torque converter rebuild or replaced?

 

Your local parts store can likely sell you one for a hundred bucks or so. Rebuilding is actually more expensive than replacement...... How long do you need it to last? If it's gonna be a couple years, I wouldn't spend less than 200 on a quality t/c.

 

Well I'm probably gonna have to get under it again at some point because the rear main seal is leaking oil. So I would say maybe 2 to 3 years tops. So if I'm gonna have to disconnect the engine & transmission, then what's the point in worrying about it. Plus I did a pretty cheap transmission rebuild with me spending maybe like $135 on resealing and putting new clutches into it. Finally, I bet even for as old as it is, that torque converter is still good. When I dumped the fluid out of the converter, it's was nice & red, none of the nasty goopy stuff in the pan. If it being driven for 285,000 miles on the original torque converter & transmission don't kill it, I don't know what will, I'm just wanting to check on it's health.

 

But I look around and see if that's a feasible option and see what I can do.