Transmission - Jegs, Summit, Monster, TCI -vs- Local Shop?
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Freshman User
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 31
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From: Napa, California
Transmission - Jegs, Summit, Monster, TCI -vs- Local Shop?
The previous owner put a 350 Chevy engine and TH350 transmission combo in my truck and now it is time to replace the transmission. Although I would like to go back to a proper Ford power plant, that isn't feasible at this point. So the question is, should I have a local shop rebuild my transmission or order from one of the mail order companies? The cost is similar.
Laughing Gas
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 914
Likes: 71
From: Lavergne, Tn.
For me....it would depend on the reputation of your local shop. If I had a problem, I would rather be able to take it to my local builder. I've had a number of transmissions rebuilt by a local transmission guy with only one having a problem and he fixed it promptly.
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 195
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From: Fresno, California
Get in touch with any local hot rod clubs you may have, and ask them who does their transmissions. Local is always better if you have a problem.
Believe Nothing
Joined: Jun 2004
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From: W. Central FL.
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Postmaster
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,222
Likes: 6
From: Houston
And you may want to consider a 700R4 since you need a total rebuild anyway. Overdrive is nice and there are lots of them around.
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Posting Guru
Joined: Dec 2008
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From: Waleska, GA
Rebuild kits are fairly cheap, and there are manuals to help you through it. If you've rebuilt carburetors before, maybe you might want to step up to a tranny (it's maybe 3 times as difficult, but if you replace things as you go, it all comes out in the end). I've done two automatics and a manual. One of the autos was a waste of 5 days and $100( I sold that car "as is.") 
. The other two turned out fine. When my AOD goes out, it will be rebuild #4.
. The other two turned out fine. When my AOD goes out, it will be rebuild #4.
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Freshman User
Joined: Feb 2014
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From: Napa, California
Update: Thanks for all the suggestions guys. I asked around and found a highly recommended shop here in town called Napa Valley Transmission. I expected to drop it off and be on my way but the owner, Marty, spent about an hour and a half with me. He disassembled the entire transmission in front of me while explaining what each component is, how it works, and how to inspect it for wear. We went over the type of driving I do, the type of engine I have, the rear end gear ratio, whether or not I will be towing, drag racing, etc. It is pretty cool that he is building it based on my needs versus me buying a generic rebuild. You just don't find that kind of customer service anymore. Here it is apart on the bench. I can't wait to get it back!
Logistics Pro
Joined: May 2010
Posts: 3,793
Likes: 19
From: Austin
Hey Rick,
You are taking a good approach. We ordered one off line from Monster Trans. for $1800 built to handle the HP we had. It failed on installation by my local builder. Monster said it was the local builder's fault - my builder said it wasn't...
So... I like your approach of just working with a solid local trans. shop & avoiding the he said/she said....
Looking good over there in Napa - hopefully you guys got some of the recent rain.
Ben in Austin
1950 F1
You are taking a good approach. We ordered one off line from Monster Trans. for $1800 built to handle the HP we had. It failed on installation by my local builder. Monster said it was the local builder's fault - my builder said it wasn't...
So... I like your approach of just working with a solid local trans. shop & avoiding the he said/she said....
Looking good over there in Napa - hopefully you guys got some of the recent rain.
Ben in Austin
1950 F1
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