Chuzie's monster transformation

[broncosbybart]

well, that is a bit of good news!

[chuzie]

My bad for failure to update.

We were pretty pissed that we ended up with a transmission issue after all the hard work that went into the 302 squeak identification and subsequent 351 install. Unfortunately, we ran out of time and I had to go back to Florida so we concluded the Bronco making it to the M+G was not likely.

In the process of trying to determine the source of the squeak in the 302, we removed the transmission multiple times and even changed the transmission pump and torque converter as more of a preventive measure rather than an attempt to rectify the squeaking.

When the transmission failed to perform, we were shocked. We had every reason to believe we had plenty of fluid. The pan was full when the transmission was installed as fluid poured out of the pan where the dipstick connects (top connection) until it was seated.

After we started her up, we added a quart of fluid and the dipstick showed full but had no motion.

Added another quart. Showed full. No motion.

Added a third quart Showed full. No motion.

Anyway, we called it a night and parked the Bronco in its typical yard ornament position in Chuck's yard until I could tackle what we thought was a possible trans pump issue requiring transmission removal upon return to Charleston in April.

I had to drop into Charleston on Tuesday en-route to some military training in Altus, Oklahoma. The transmission issues had been eating at me for 3 weeks and I couldn't resist but to go over and drop the pan just on a hunch.

The pan was empty and the filter was laying in the pan. The two issues, I feel, are unrelated. I replaced the filter, ended up adding 5 quarts and voila, the Bronco is operational!

So why did this happen?

My theory.... Torque Converter.

I did not reclaim the fluid from the old TC nor did I account for the new TC and its fluid requirements after I installed it. Since the TC was in the process of "filling" as we added fluid, it still was not enough to make the TC operational. We failed to make the connection as to why we were able to add three quarts and yet the dipstick remained steady at FULL. Now we know.

It was a bonehead move on my part and I take responsibility for being a dumbass.

Bottom line- I almost pulled the transmission and could have missed out on the M+G for something as simple as insufficient fluid level! :banghead:

[Crawdad]

A lil bit of info to pass on to ya that really has no bearing on your monster build. But I found a guy named Butch who has lots of broncos and parts just south of Stark FL. Just wanted to pass that on to you. I have more info on Butch's shop if you need it.

[chuzie]

i actually met him at an event in October. He somehow managed to snap a 35 spline axle shaft on the mud and then I watched the spare tire + carrier fall off his bumper while driving down a dirt road. Good times.

Wasn't aware he had a shop. I am happy to have any info you have though.

Thx.

[Crawdad]

I've had no luck meeting up with EB owners down here. I just don't have the looks of Chuck and the charm of Charles! Here is a link I started on Classic Bronco http://classicbroncos.com/forums/showthr...p?t=220002 . Ill get you a pic of his business card he gave me. Butch doesn't do the "Internet thing" as he puts it. He says he doesn't need it with all the business he already gets. His words and not mine. He has broncos and bronco parts, but his bread and butter is RV repairs. He knew nothing of Classic Bronco's website or Bronco Driver Magazine.

[chuzie]

Hmmm. Maybe this is a different butch. Shoot me his card. Ya dude, the florida folks are tough nuts to crack. If you think it is hard getting carolina participation, you havent seen crap! I struggle with them frequently.


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[Crawdad]

Here is his information:
Butch Hylton
Affordable RV Repair
14970 US Hwy 301
Suite A
Starke, FL 32091
1-904-964-2500 (day)
1-352-745-0444 (night)

[chuzie]

Thanks dude.

[Crawdad]

If you go south on 301 through Starke his shop will be on the left about a half mile. If you pass the Ford dealership you have gone too far.

[chuzie]

That is perfect. I always take 301 when traveling from Tampa to Charleston and will be driving the Civic back to Tampa in May and the Bronco back (hopefully) in June.