I am thinking about adding a shift kit from rockauto to my 1981 254 auto wagon(100k mi). Anybody installed one and does money/effort justify its use. Transgo description makes them sound cats meow:
Features & Benefits:
The kit includes valve body components and modifications designed to deliver short smooth shifts as well as a better TC clutch apply. There are several innovative components in this kit. For instance, the line-to-converter feed system which helps the unit run cooler and promotes longer TC clutch life. Also included is a TransGo pioneered *manual valve to reduce overnight forward and reverse delayed engagement complaints due to torque converter drain back. Lastly, this kit can be installed with the transmission in the truck.
Corrects/Prevents/Reduces:
TCC slip or shudder
Reduces converter drain-back
Soft shifts
Loss of power on launch
Converter hub failure
Pump bushing failure"
How do you use the car? If it's a cruiser, I don't think it's worth installing because the harder shifts will probably get annoying. If you tow/haul or off road with the car a lot, it will probably help it live longer.
My two cents is that they're generally worth it for Chrysler transmissions. Converter drainback is a real issue for many of them and the transgo kit is worth it just to address that. I wouldn't describe the shifts as "harsh" or "hard", more like less spongy/lazy.
Thanks for your replies! It's a cruiser primarily so I'm going to research a bit more. I like the idea of solving the drain back problem. I definitely notice a delay in trans engagement when shifting into forward/reverse at start of the day.
Thanks for the advice!