I got an 86 1/2ton 4x4 318/727/208. I'm currently building a sb 408 w/ 475hp/tq. My plan is to swap to o/d also. I already got a 518/241 out of a 90rc. This is a 2pin non l/u. Paid $425 for trans, tcase, x mem, f d-shaft,lines linkages, gas tank/straps/members. Not too bad considering the local yard wanted $950 for everything, w/ exchange .

Whats the mpg/rpm/price difference in a quality (non lu) VS (lu). I live in ND were its flat and cold. I dont plan to tow alot 2500-6500lbs(10k max). However, I'd like to be able to do this in o/d w/ 33's 4.56 gears. I would think the trans would run a lot cooler w/ a LU TC. No?

Reason I ask, there's a guy that has a 46RH out of a 94 1500 w/ 150k for $250. I know these tranys are rare 94-95, should I jump on it? Would it be worth it for the LU TC alone? What crucial updates were made from 89-90 91.5-93 and 94-95. I have a 2,000 budget, is this realistic for my application. I plane to rebuild it myself.

Any help would be AWESOME!!!!

Thanks

 

RH series trannys were a little more durable than the RE's. But I wouldn't be my life on it.
Why not go manual?
And NV4500 will bolt up right behind that engine.

 

I'd like to keep it an auto for now. I've entertained the thought of a 5spd, for now, an auto is more practical and a lot easier.

Anyone care to give their thoughts....

 

Locking torque converter is good to reduce trans heat. (I would suggest it is damn near a requirement in these transmissions....... they weren't the greatest to begin with.) Also better for fuel economy.... The RH guy will be a lot easier to set up to work right.

Don't tow in overdrive no matter what you do. ESPECIALLY not the heavier stuff. You will smoke your trans in short order.

 

Whats, the killer w/ towing in o/d? Heat? o/d clutches? Tcc? Hard parts?... I was going to run a 9qt TCI aluminum pan w/ a big cooler and the HD 1k lb spring. Also have a temp gauge to keep me out of trouble. Not sure what I should do for clutches though, like what style/count/brand. What do you guys suggest? Thin reds or rybstos or borg? PATC seems to be all about thin clutches for more surface area. Don't they sacrifice durability to heat, being that they're thinner and more susceptible to warping? What about bands, flex or rigid? Should I look at upgrading to some steel planetaries? You cant upgrade to steel planets w/ the 518 correct?

 

Heat is the main killer. Eats clutches and such. (and also bands I do believe.)

A fair number of the 47R? parts will go right into the 46RE. On page six of montec's trans thread, in the faq section, monte has a list of parts for a member that regularly towed a 7K pound trailer. (there are some duplicate numbers, just depends on what year truck) Going off of that list would be a good start.

I have a copy of the list, that also has part descriptions..... if you want a copy of my version, just PM me your email address, and I will send it off to ya.

 

I think heat would destort the clutches then eat them as well as the seals and rings. Not sure if heat would kill the bands but defiantly the drums(hardens them).

Anyone think with a deep pan and good cooler and gauge, I Would be safe pulling 6k in o/d with good quality TC,cltches,bands,1k lb spring? What clutches/bands do you suggest? Thin or thick? what brand? what count? Rigid or flex band? What material? What apply ratio (5.0:1)?

From what I understand is 47 hard parts will retro into the 46rh/re but not the 88-93 518 correct? The 88-93 518 came with 4pinion aluminum while the 46 came with a 5pin aluminum and the 47RE came w/ 5pin steel 48 comes w/ 6pin steel, correct? Anyone know when they upgraded to the HD 2nd gear band (The big wide one, similar to the hemi)? I know the sprag was updated from a 12 to a 14 roller and is now in a cage rather than a million pieces. Also something about the o/d sun gear/planet bearing update(4 grove slinger and 6 tab washer). Then they added a snap ring and washer to the drum, why?

 

I don't think towing in O/D is ever recommended, no matter how much you beef up the trans.

Check the parts list, and see what recommendations are on there.