Request the improved stove pipe. Make sure the valve body has all the Sonnax upgrades and components:

Below is a list of all the Sonnax parts and components for the 4T60E; they are as follows:

Hope this list helps. You can go to the Sonnax website and check out these part numbers for pictures and descriptions. too.

www.sonnax.com

Isnt this problem on the list of techincal bulletins for the 4T60-E where the transaxle slips into a neutral state while at speed. This was the demise of my cutlass, I junked it because several other things where wrong with it including it was slow!!!

It is not the same. When the Stove Pipe fails (Reverse reactor Drum), the trans stays on low gear, will not shift into high gear and will slip. Also, reverse will try to engage and will slip constantly.

Should my transmission mechanic honnor my request for sonnax parts? or are those the default ones he will use? Should i buy the parts and have him install them? Should i look for a new mechanic if he doesn't wanna install my parts?

It depends a lot on the shop. I asked to have the Sonnax upgrades installed since they solve a lot of the headaches that are inherent with this transaxle. The shop I used is also a trans parts warehouse for all the trans shops in the area and they have the valve bodies with all the Sonnax upgrades already installed since some the valves and spools require reaming of paasages in the valave body. The list shown applies to the different year * and you do not need everything shown. Many of the items are also packaged as a kit as shown in the last two parts numbers in the list.

When I had my trans rebuilt, I called around and spoke to each shop. I also checked their history on-line with the Better Business Bureau; you will be surprised on the reputation of many shops!!!

My beleif is that any reputable shop, will do al the updates from Sonnax.

ok well all it coems donw to for me is if he doesn;t use sonnax parts and uses some other aftermarket parts will it last and do you think it would be good enough? i mean if it lasts 5 years thats about the life of the car. it already has 160k on it. yeah i wanna get the best stuff but i am also tight on budget

It is a matter of choice. I almost purchased a complete trans from IPT, however, I spoke to a friend that builds racing transmissions that is very familiar with the 4T60E. After a lengthy discussion, I choose to spend the extra money with a local shop that does use all the Sonnax parts and does all the updates. The decision was made since I plan to do a lot of more improvements such as a smaller pulley, exhaust system, cylinder heads and other mods. I want a trans that a least might be able to take a bit more punishment and not grenade on me.

oh ok thanks for the info

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