The 1964 Ford 3-speed automatic vehicle introduced the world to the C4 transmission. Two decades later, in 1984, the C5 came along as the upgrade to the C4 model. While not used today in automobile manufacturing, the C4 transmission may be under your vehicle’s hood. If it is, chances are it might need rebuilding. When rebuilding, the torque convertor, bands and clutches all need replacing. Inspect other parts on the engine for possible wear to make sure your transmission is clean.
What You'll Need
- Shop or service manual
- C4 transmission replacement parts
- Locate the materials needed for this project. The C4 build kits are available through some auto suppliers and findable online through aftermarket dealers. The kit will contain the necessary mechanical parts for a complete rebuild.
Dissemble the Old
Disassemble the parts from your current C4 transmission and lay them all out on a table. Separate the parts that need replacing from those that simply need cleaning. If you are afraid there exists fluid in the transmission compartments, consider placing the transmission on a piece of cardboard to keep your workplace tidy.
Rebuild the Clutch
Rebuild the forward clutch assembly piece according to the operator’s manual. Begin by stacking the clutches and steels from the C4 build kit. For the firmest possible shift, make sure the side clearance is between .045 and .060 once the assembly is completed.
Inspect the Gear Plates
Examine the forward and reverse gear plates. Clean the plates if necessary or replace them with the plates from the spare C4 transmission. Inspect the other components one by one that you took apart, making sure nothing needs replacing.
Place the Assembly Together and Test
Reassemble the newly built transmission completely together. Use brand new gaskets from the kit to secure everything in place. Apply lubricant on any part prone to friction. Do not forget about sealant where applicable. Make sure you check your casting number to make sure your bell housing is compatible.
Test the assembly to make sure you rebuilt everything correctly. For proper torque specifications, refer to the service manual. Test all the servo pistons and look for any wear on the pistons that may require replacement.
Sources:
"C4 Rebuild Kit C4 Transmission Rebuild Kits How To Rebuild C4 Trans." Performance Parts Aftermarket High Performance Auto Motorcycle Racing Parts. http://www.campbellenterprises.com/automatic-transmission-rebuild-kit/c4-transmission-rebuild-kit.php (accessed September 3, 2011).
"Performance Automatic - Performance Automatic Transmissions - JEGS." JEGS Performance Auto Parts - Holley - Billet Specialties - Edelbrock - MSD - Moroso - Mr Gasket. http://www.jegs.com/v/Performance-Automatic/732 (accessed September 3, 2011).
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