When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I am about 2 weeks away from being able to start the engine for the first time (302 with a 4r70w transmission). My question is on the transmission: I filled the torque converter with 1qt before installing but past that, I have done nothing to it. How much fluid do I need to add before attempting to start and also do I need to go ahead and order the baumann controller now or can that be done later? This is only a startup, no driving forward/backwards by any means.
Is this an empty trans and converter or just partially drained? Normally I fill a new converter before installation and then put 4 quarts in the empty trans to start. Start the engine and run for 30 seconds or so, shut down, and check the trans stick. Add more fluid and repeat. An auto trans can hold 8 quarts or more, check on how much yours should hold. I will not run the engine for any length of time unless I see fluid on the stick with the engine off. Then run it and top off as needed.
If this is a first start and you need to break in the cam I would leave the torque converter disconnected and put a bungee cord on it to keep it from sliding forward into the flex plate during the cam break in (if this is even possible) otherwise you will be dancing around the running engine trying to get the trans topped off.
Just a reminder if this is a rebuilt engine prime it before you try to start it. Your cam and bearings will love you for it. You can prime it with the distributor out with a priming tool, a 1/4" socket and long extension or by removing the coil wire and cranking it until you see oil flowing from the rockers. OBTW Don't over heat your starter cranking it.
When I started the engine in my truck, I was told that you should make sure the trans has plenty of fluid. Transmissions don't take well to running dry, you can destroy the pump.
I just put in 4 quarts and then topped it off once I had the motor running and could check it.
The amount of ATF needed depends upon where you bought your torque converter, how big it is, how big your trans cooler is and how long and big your lines are to the trans cooler.
The Baumann controller can be added later. Just make sure that your rear wheels are off the ground on solid jack stands before you run through the gears.
