How about a transmission tuning tutorial!

[jfpilla]

Yes, feel free to add that too, and any helpful information.

I haven't put a shift kit in a PCM controlled trans., so I don't have direct experience with the effects of this on adaptive learning.

I would caution about removing TM althogether since it can be hard on the drivetrain (would require stronger parts in the trans. and on back).

If the trans. is fairly stock, I would reduce TM/TR some amount, but not all the way.

If trans. is built up, and driver doesn't mind the feel, then there's quite a few people who have zeroed out TM/TR with no problem.

Good points about TM. Heavy clutches and an hardened output shaft, at least, would be good. If a hi stall converter is used it will soften the blows.
Before I knew about adaptive learning I notice that the reprogrammed shifts were getting softer. It was over a long period. Months. It's been at least a year since zeroing shift times and no changes have happened.

[joecar]

Before I knew about adaptive learning I notice that the reprogrammed shifts were getting softer. It was over a long period. Months. It's been at least a year since zeroing shift times and no changes have happened.

Good piece of information;
this must happen because the trans is not aware that the pressure/flow is supposed to be at the increased level with the shift kit, so it tries its best to learn the shifts back down.
Interesting.

[Redline Motorsports]

Guys,

I am so glad this thread lives on! Nice job in gathering the info! I can see that this tutorial will be a work in progress. I happen to have a couple A4's in the shop for packages and I look forward in applying these lessons.

Its amazing that the tranny calibrating can be as exercising as the PCM tuning.

Howard

[Black02SS]

Guys,

I am so glad this thread lives on! Nice job in gathering the info! I can see that this tutorial will be a work in progress. I happen to have a couple A4's in the shop for packages and I look forward in applying these lessons.

Its amazing that the tranny calibrating can be as exercising as the PCM tuning.

Howard

Sure can. I have had a lot of stock or semi-stock cars that just want tranny adjustments. World of difference from the stock settings.

[ringram]

10 4, will update with the extra comments and change the PDF now.

[jfpilla]

You might want to reconsider recommending synthetic fluid. Dexron lll ATF non synthetic for warranty.
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/showth...t=tranny+fluid

[joecar]

You might want to reconsider recommending synthetic fluid. Dextron lll ATF non synthetic for warranty.
http://www.ls1tech.com/forums/showth...t=tranny+fluid

Could be...

I'm using Mobil 1 Synthetic Dexron III (which meets the GM specifications including the friction holding characteristics).

I haven't had any problems with it, and I push my car hard at least once a day, but that's my trans. with my calibration/tune with me driving, and I change my ATF and filter every 15K miles (including TC flush).

I can't say with any authority, but I suspect those people's trans. may have already had a problem regardless of fluid, of course I may be proven totally wrong in saying this; my opinion only.

You're right, I should not be recommending synthetic ATF.

Edit: I'm wondering if those people had already firmed up their shifts (pressures and times)....?

[joecar]

This is from the Amsoil webpage...

2001 PONTIAC FIREBIRD 5.7L 8-cyl VIN Code G
LUBRICANTS & FLUIDS

Engine Oil
Grade 1......API*
Series 2000 Synthetic 0W-30 Motor Oil
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil
SAE 10W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil
SAE 5W-30 XL Synthetic Motor Oil
Above 0°F......10W-30
All Temps......5W-30[1]

Manual Transmission,.....AF3
Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid
Torque-Drive™ Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATD)

Automatic Transmission.....AF3
Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid
Torque-Drive™ Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATD)

Standard Differential, Rear .....GL-5[2]
75W-90
Severe Gear 75W-90
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lube

Controlled Slip Differential, Rear .....GL-5*[3][4]
75W-90
Severe Gear 75W-90

This is unlike the statement made by one person that 'Amsoil' recommends against.

But anyway, I'm on a search now to see what people have to say about this....

[driver456]

I use amsoil automatic trans fluid,No problems so far...............Paul

[BowlingSS]

I have always used non-synthetic fluid because of what I have read on other forums. Maybe they were wrong.

Bill