questions on shift kit

[magnetopenguino]

i want to get a shift kit for my '97 gtp - probably the intense kit - but i have a few questions.

i'm assuming that in order to get to the necessary components, you'd have to drain the trans fluid. if i'm way off on that, please correct me.

the part that concerns me is that everyone that ever talks to me who's somewhat intelligent about cars always ways not to change the trans fluid, as it will often lead to trans failure.

right now, the car's at 112,000, and according to the service history that came with the car, the trans fluid/filter was changed right around 50,000 (I believe 53k).

so, my question is - do you need to change the trans fluid to install the kit, and if you do, is it worth it for me?

[Dave's'05SS]

I say change the fluid (do you really want to try and salvage the fluid that will most likely get all over the place when you crack the pan?).

[12.99someday98]

I believe when they refer to not changing the fluid's thats on non-maintained cars with tons of miles. Since yours got replaced at 50k you should be in good shape, maybe let a couple more educated guys chime in here and give their .02. The trans fluid definitely has to be changed when you do the shift kit, so if some other guys chime in and say to keep the fluid thats already inside the tranny, then i guess no shift kit for you lol. As far as i know you should be alright though. Hows A-town? lol, i used to live there now i'm in oswego, which sucks wayyyy more. Cops here will write you a speeding ticket for 35.1 in a 35... jerks!!

[2POR4SS]

that is a common missconception about automatic transmission,changing the fluid in the pan does nothing more then put fresh cleaner fluid through the t/c and valve body parts as well as clutches bands,drums piston lipseals etc....Additives kill transmissions they swell lip seals and soon after the lip rolls over and the seal cannot contain the presure and therefore cannot apply the clutches.tranny fluid expands as it get hot when it is dirty and or contaminated is doesn't expand and or operate valves etc as efficent.Hope there is some helpful info in there maybe off topic but good info.bottom line when you install the new filter DONT change the seal in the case as there is a good chance you will gouge it coming out which at higher pump speeds will run the pump dry i have seen that on certain cars after a trans service but as indicated any falure can ussually be attributed to the technition not the fluid hope this helps,charles

[2POR4SS]

another thing i would do is after the pan is back on,i would disconect 1 of the tranny lines,lower on the 4-t65e attach a hose a pour in about 5 qts of you fluid of choice synthetic or ams oil or multi v have an assistant start the vehicle and let it run in park until the fluid coming from the line starts to sputter and spit a little air.then reconect,clean and fill with 7 more qts and you now have all new fluid in your T/C as well...increase tcc life and better lock-up hope this helps