How do I do a complete rebuild of my transmission?

Hello,

There are many components that can be replaced during a transmission rebuild, depending on the issue at hand.
A typical rebuild includes all the gaskets, seals, gears and solenoids and other typical worn items. Also, the filter and any screens that go inside the transmission.
So, it will all depend on what issue you are trying to fix.
There are a few special tools that you will need to get this done.
Look below for all the special tool requirements and I have attached transmission disassembly instructions below for your reference.

If you are looking for any specific part disassembly and reassembly just let me know.

Thank you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-remove-an-automatic-transmission-rwd

Well, the original issue was it would slip everything you got above 3,000 RPMs, but when I dropped the pan and valve body not only was there thick gray stuff in there, but a piece fell out that the guys from the Ford service dept told me is from something that’s behind the pump and the only way to get to it is by disassembling the transmission and that I may as well rebuild it if I take it apart. They also said I’ll need a TC.

Do you have any pictures of the part that fell out?

Yes.

It looks like a retainer but deformed. Can you tell where it possibly came out of? Check the valve body retainers for the valves.

After a lot of searching, I finally found out what it’s called. Anti-clunk spring.

So, do I have to rebuild it, or can I just replace the anti-clunk spring? I was told that the reason those fail are a worn transfer case or something like that so I’ll change the case too.

You mentioned that you have issues with slipping, which could be due to worn gear and or torque converter. So, a rebuild of those components is likely.
You want to get a rebuilt kit that has all the regular components, like the picture below.

What about the anti-clunk spring? Do you know if that means I need a new case?

You should be able to replace the springs, as they are just worn. You could replace the case if you chose to especially you are already in. But it shouldn't be necessary.

Oh okay. I was thinking I did because the ford technician told me that a worn case is the only thing that would make that anti-clunk spring fall out. It’s weird that it’s called a spring because it looks more like a cotter pin or, like you said, a retainer. If I don’t have to change it though then I won’t.

One thing you can do is to install a new spring and see the fitment. If it is loose, then the case will need to be replaced. That way you are taking action based on what is required.

How do I drop the transmission?

What I meant was, is there a way without having to remove the exhaust because I’m having trouble getting a couple of the exhaust bolts off.

You should be able to remove the exhaust hanger bolts, that will give you enough room.

I went ahead and attached the transmission replacement procedure below for your reference.

I don’t have that tool. So, can I just bolt a chain across it mounting it where the bell housing bolts go and using nuts on the other side? Or do I really need that tool?

The retainer just keeps the converter in place. So as long you can do it any other method it will be fine.

I’m having a really hard time trying to separate the rear driveshaft from the differential. Can I just leave it on and undo the center support bearing and pull the front driveshaft out of the tranny and leave it like that on stands or something?

Yes, it might make it little tricky to keep it on a stand. But you should be able to get the job done.

I don’t really know what to look for. I’ll post some pics. Only thing i found were the scratches I circled in the last pic.

And this. There was a tiny piece of metal stuck where that gouge is.

My fingernail catches in those circle scratches.

There are a couple of these around this part.

Maybe this is the issue.

Well, for the most part these components have typical wear due to mileage, not really jumps out of being 'the' issue. The last picture could be the cause of concern.

So just a complete rebuild?

That is probably your best option. That way you know you covered all typical worn items.

I'm assuming the assembly is the reverse of disassembly instructions from above, but do you have instructions with torque specs for the valve body bolts?

See attached for the transmission reassembly procedure as well as the valve body instructions. You will find all the torque specifications as well as the very important torque sequence.

Is it necessary to replace the solenoids during a rebuild?

Only if it is a concern (typically shifting issues). Might be a good idea if many other components are getting replaced.

Are there inspection instructions you would be able to post for the transmission parts or at least for the valve body? I am finding that things that would not be okay in an engine are seemingly fine in a transmission. It’s very different and I really don’t want to mess this up. I'd like to be as thorough as possible.

Unfortunately, the repair manual does not provide an inspection guide, just rebuilding and replacement.
However, there are some helpful videos on YouTube on this subject.
Take a look at this video.

https://youtu.be/EBuQNkJcKhA

Okay, I will, thanks. Should I replace the bushings in the transmission since it has around 300,000 (maybe more) miles on it?

Also, I can't really see the different o rings in the pictures posted. How can I identify which one goes where other than putting them where they fit?

I keep seeing “in the sub assembly section” in the directions but don’t see the actual section. Can you post the instructions to assemble the sub assemblies?

These are the subassemblies that have more details:

Forward Clutch Cylinder
Intermediate One-Way Clutch
Main Control Valve Body
Output Shaft and Direct Clutch Cylinder
Planetary Gear Support Assembly and Planetary One-Way Clutch
Pump and Intermediate Clutch Piston
Reverse Clutch
Reverse Sun Gear

Let me know which one you want to take a look at.
Thank you.

All of them. I literally took everything completely apart.

See attached.

Oh wow that’s perfect. Thank you!