Kind of a basic transmission question, but Im feeling dumb
 

I thought this was Lounge material, as its not mechanical, and doesnt really pertain to a Bonneville at this point.

My transmission acts strange sometimes, and I know that being a 4T65-E its probably bound to go at some point.

My question is this, can I replace it with any ol' 4T65-E that happens to have a 3.05 ratio? Or is there something special?

Im not sure if there are TC differences between the 3.5 and 3.8, but Im sure those could be swapped anyway.

Im just merely probing the knowledge depths here.

I can't say for sure, but I CAN say that I don't know why the 4T65-E gets a bad rep. Sure they may have problems the 4T60s didn't, but some people (not you) have made it seem like it's crap. I disagree. These transmissions are very reliable IMO. Maybe I should do some more research?

Wish I could answer your question with complete certainty. I would think the trans on a 3.5 vs 3.8 could be an issue, but I really don't know. I'm sure there would be differences somewhere that would have to be taken into account no matter what.

Wiring and the case would be your main concerns. I guess some of those 65's have a reinforcing sidepan. I don't have the foggiest about the wiring. I would say, if you find one with the same side pan, pull it off and compare the wires against yours? That'd be my method of approach. That certainly doesn't mean it's the right one.

As for the TC, I'm not 100%, but I think it will have four letters stamped on it somewhere. They tell you everything about the TC if they are on it... Application, stall speed, clutch type, and something else.

You've got an oddball application with that 3.5 DOHC...alot will depend on:

1) Do you have access to a tuner? (if not, that limits you to the same sprocket ratio and similar TC stall speeds)
2) Do you plan to recycle your old TC (or buy one separate from the tranny if needed), or do you expect the donor tranny to have a useable TC in it?
3) Do you want a direct hookup with no hacking the wiring harness? (if so, that limits you to trannies with an external gear selection sensor; i.e., no IMS)

Well I dont have access to a tuner. I guess if it ever does finally go I may just have it rebuilt, or ill just have to assess the situation as it comes. I dont think replacing the transmission is something I could do on my own anyway. But maybe its not as hard as im thinking it is.

Luckily its still working right for the most part. It slips in reverse sometimes, but has done that for a long time. Occasionally it will slam hard into 4th gear, and sometimes while cruising in 4th, out of nowhere will be this slam sensation that shakes the whole car for a split second then everything returns to normal.

I guess a transmission from another Intrigue with the same engine and gearing would almost certainly work with no problems, but those arent always easy to find.

Hoov it sounds almost like you are eating up the 4th gear splines.. Many of the 65-E's had that issues as the miles piled up...

We have noticed problems as such on the 60-E as well, It too wears out the 4th splines..

You will need to know your gear ratio, also you will need to know when and if there was a wiring change made, as well as the stall speed...

It would most likely be easier to get a trans from a 3.5 Like yours... It almost seems like you have the 3.05 Ratio?

__________________
Best Car Insurance | Auto Protection Today | FREE Trade-In Quote

Yes he has the 3.05. :wink: