Jewel Red tint coat TBSS Intro & Build

[Drifte]

Bored at work, thought I'd get around to posting the newish whip.

low mile TBSS with all the goodies (black leather with suede inserts is money) except that rear entertainment system. I dont sit back there..so i dont care. Havent had it long, mod list is short:
Tint, cat back (no resonator), K&N intake, 3m clear sideskirt protection. I hear a lot of complaints about gas mileage. I think its 90% driver here, I can cruise in the 20+ range, and a tune would help further improve that. So far, I like it. Cruises real nice and gets up to speed ok.


https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/1001645_10100248542745859_1456671022_n.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/THtdtsP.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/cMNwNv0.jpg

[AutoMods]

we need engine bay shot. i need a ride

[Batwood]

That thing probably seems like a Caddy compared to the Mountaineer.
I love the color.

[FiFdYnUtZ]

That color is usually a dirty whore to color match

[Drifte]

That thing probably seems like a Caddy compared to the Mountaineer.
I love the color.
I get 50/50 love hate. It does neat things in different lighting, and its easier to keep clean than black. Rides nicer than the mountaineer, thats about it haha.


That color is usually a dirty whore to color match
So I've heard, not looking forward to any issues that come up with that.

[JustaGT]

Looks awesome!! Cant wait to see it in person.

[Drifte]

we need engine bay shot. i need a ride

pretty boring under here, and could use some cleaning.
http://i.imgur.com/m5BRDok.jpg

[TbTalon94]

Exhaust?

[Drifte]

cat back yea. not a power gain, just some sound. Hope to have clinton tune it after my trans gets worked over a little.

[AutoMods]

pretty boring under here, and could use some cleaning.
http://i.imgur.com/m5BRDok.jpg


good wallpaper for snickerlicker

[oVa-Boost]

Nice rig I have same color tbss awd that color does suck to match but its sweet. I ran mine at 2nd midnite drags at cfr and ran 13.9 4 times not bad for a heavy pig

[tylers88]

http://i1065.photobucket.com/albums/u399/tylers88/20130325_151548_zpsbcb41f25.jpg (http://s1065.photobucket.com/user/tylers88/media/20130325_151548_zpsbcb41f25.jpg.html)
Whoever matched my bowties got them dead on, looks good, mine isn't an SS but still love the thing

[Domestic Disturbance]

Is it an AWD or RWD? I like how the vents are black

[Drifte]

Mine is awd, 2wd would be better in a performance aspect. But this is just a dd, that my wife will drive as well. The stability control, traction control and awd make it a pretty safe vehicle for a girl to drive.

[Drifte]

Doing a little cleaning and tinkering.
http://i.imgur.com/skJQOiq.jpg

Heres the small hole in the middle of the headlights to let in air.
http://i.imgur.com/GQcJuGq.jpg

Here it is after I enlarged it a bit.
http://i.imgur.com/VXeWDGa.jpg

And here is the K&N air box getting modified.
http://i.imgur.com/UWGiMEo.jpg
I drilled out the 3 spot welds and removed the front shield. It still seals up to the hood nice, but now is open to the incoming cooler air.

All back together here. Need to clean that airfilter still.
http://i.imgur.com/6hwPDci.jpg

[AutoMods]

I know you went out and tested that on the but dyno after you were done.

[Drifte]

I dont even get on it to know the difference. Next day drove to DSM for the weekend and fully loaded at about 75mph with cruise on I only averaged 17.5mpg. I drive it like an old lady, looking for toy to take my rage out on. Maybe a 240 or miata or motard.

Vette 1-2 servo is here, need to get that put on, trans cooler, and change fluids.

[rrmccabe]

Doing a little cleaning and tinkering.


Heres the small hole in the middle of the headlights to let in air.


Here it is after I enlarged it a bit.


And here is the K&N air box getting modified.

I drilled out the 3 spot welds and removed the front shield. It still seals up to the hood nice, but now is open to the incoming cooler air.

All back together here. Need to clean that airfilter still.

If you can find the stock air box lid for it I think you will find it works better than the K&N open one.

Nice looking truck. Did you buy this in Chicago ?

[JustinS]

Much better than the Mountaineer.

[Drifte]

If you can find the stock air box lid for it I think you will find it works better than the K&N open one.

Nice looking truck. Did you buy this in Chicago ?
Bought it right here in Iowa. Havent seen you on here before, sig looks like you need to post up some pics of your ride!

[rrmccabe]

OK I am the admin on TBSSowners.com and someone came on looking for a TBSS close to Cedar Rapids and then posted they found one in Chicago. Did not know if it was you or not.

I see you found the other thread. I started out with all the "bolt-on" mods not wanting to screw with a brand new truck. I think I had E-fans, tune, intake and UD pulley on it at about 800 miles and was going to call it good. Was all downhill from there. You can see a lot of this at www.ss-shootout.com (http://www.ss-shootout.com).

I dont know how much you are planning on doing to yours since your wife drives it but a good tune sure helps the drive-ability and with your intake will probably net you .3 in the quarter depending on how aggressive you get. E-fans are nice for noise and if I remember right Vector Motorsports found they rob about 15 horse. I seriously would look for a stock air box lid as the K&N just doesn't seal well enough. You are basically going to be heat soaked all the time and pulling timing.

Mine started out as a DD but hardly gets driven now. This winter I am jerking the motor and building a new short-block again and going with a good set of ported LS3 style heads and a lot more cam. Going to get rid of the truck intake and probably switch to Holley Hi Ram. Only thing that I haven't decided on is sticking with stock cubes or going to 408 stroker.

Let me know what questions you have. Been there and done that with a lot of it and if I haven't I know people that have ! PCM of NC also know as PCMforless is one of the best places to get TBSS tunes and related hardware. Alvin and Kelly are top notch and have built some really fast stuff and sold a ton of kits for doing things like adding e-fans. I highly recommend them.

[oVa-Boost]

OK I am the admin on TBSSowners.com and someone came on looking for a TBSS close to Cedar Rapids and then posted they found one in Chicago. Did not know if it was you or not.

I see you found the other thread. I started out with all the "bolt-on" mods not wanting to screw with a brand new truck. I think I had E-fans, tune, intake and UD pulley on it at about 800 miles and was going to call it good. Was all downhill from there. You can see a lot of this at www.ss-shootout.com (http://www.ss-shootout.com).

I dont know how much you are planning on doing to yours since your wife drives it but a good tune sure helps the drive-ability and with your intake will probably net you .3 in the quarter depending on how aggressive you get. E-fans are nice for noise and if I remember right Vector Motorsports found they rob about 15 horse. I seriously would look for a stock air box lid as the K&N just doesn't seal well enough. You are basically going to be heat soaked all the time and pulling timing.

Mine started out as a DD but hardly gets driven now. This winter I am jerking the motor and building a new short-block again and going with a good set of ported LS3 style heads and a lot more cam. Going to get rid of the truck intake and probably switch to Holley Hi Ram. Only thing that I haven't decided on is sticking with stock cubes or going to 408 stroker.

Let me know what questions you have. Been there and done that with a lot of it and if I haven't I know people that have ! PCM of NC also know as PCMforless is one of the best places to get TBSS tunes and related hardware. Alvin and Kelly are top notch and have built some really fast stuff and sold a ton of kits for doing things like adding e-fans. I highly recommend them.

What he said is a good start a tune wakes these hogs up pretty good and efans is great for adding sum hp and giving more room between engine and radiator. A set of stock ls1 camaro firebird fans will work just get the wiring kit from pcmforless and need to tune them in your ecm so they work but that's free when you order the wiring install kit

[Drifte]

RRMCCABE

I have been frequenting both of those sites for a while now. A lot longer than what Ive owned my TBSS. I move slow, research, edmunds, research real world IE: the guys on the forums. Came to the conclusion this was the most practical but fun vehicle I could possibly buy for my needs.

Before I can do anything, basically I need a tune. Which in my case means sending my ECU out to PCMforless. I have a spare vehicle, so thats not an issue. But while its getting flashed for my "mods" I would then need them to flash for the e-fans. So its kinda a good chunk of money up front. IM cheap, gonna take me a while to make a move on mods. I want them..just know I dont need them.

Appreciate the input, sounds like we could have a tbss meet up here in CR with a decent turn out! Are DSM's getting replaced with SUV's on this forum?

[Drifte]

OK I am the admin on TBSSowners.com and someone came on looking for a TBSS close to Cedar Rapids and then posted they found one in Chicago. Did not know if it was you or not.

I see you found the other thread. I started out with all the "bolt-on" mods not wanting to screw with a brand new truck. I think I had E-fans, tune, intake and UD pulley on it at about 800 miles and was going to call it good. Was all downhill from there. You can see a lot of this at www.ss-shootout.com (http://www.ss-shootout.com).



Is that YOUR site, ss-shootout? Thats awesome if it is, the audio system is fantastic too. Ive read every post on that site twice by now.

[rrmccabe]

Yes SS-Shootout.com is my personal site.

Keep on the lookout for a set of LS1 fans. Then just get the kit from PCMforless. One option you have is using someones HPtuners to flash your tune and fan patch. Only problem is you have to buy vehicle credits from HPtuners. But if you plan on doing stuff over time then this is the way to go. PCMforless can email you the changes and you just flash them in with HPtuners.

The TBSS is fun. We have a good time taking it to Eddyville clicking off a half dozen 7.60 runs against some pretty decent cars and then closing the cutouts, turning up the AC and watching a movie on the way home.

[oVa-Boost]

RRMCCABE

I have been frequenting both of those sites for a while now. A lot longer than what Ive owned my TBSS. I move slow, research, edmunds, research real world IE: the guys on the forums. Came to the conclusion this was the most practical but fun vehicle I could possibly buy for my needs.

Before I can do anything, basically I need a tune. Which in my case means sending my ECU out to PCMforless. I have a spare vehicle, so thats not an issue. But while its getting flashed for my "mods" I would then need them to flash for the e-fans. So its kinda a good chunk of money up front. IM cheap, gonna take me a while to make a move on mods. I want them..just know I dont need them.

Appreciate the input, sounds like we could have a tbss meet up here in CR with a decent turn out! Are DSM's getting replaced with SUV's on this forum?

I wish I woulda never messed with a dsm spent alot of ching and didnt go anywhere the tb with lil work would dust my old dsm.... but a tbss meet would be cool maybe do something at iaf shoot out

[rrmccabe]

Afraid whatever you mess with is going to cost some money. But its all for fun right?

Here is idle clip of current setup with cutouts CLOSED. This will probably be the last video of it semi-civil. Going to get obnoxious after this.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-b6tH1CVosQ

[AutoMods]

colton, i can flash stuff for you with my efilive . but its like a one time $85 to register your vin.

[Sleepy]

[/video]


It sounds slow...

[rrmccabe]

What did you go to SEP or something. Cant even quote properly. LOL

Least mine runs ! Are you going to get yours street worthy or not?

[Clinical]

I wish I woulda never messed with a dsm spent alot of ching and didnt go anywhere the tb with lil work would dust my old dsm.... but a tbss meet would be cool maybe do something at iaf shoot out
you dang DSM traitors

[Sleepy]

What did you go to SEP or something. Cant even quote properly. LOL

Least mine runs ! Are you going to get yours street worthy or not?\
I didn't want to embed the whole video :p

It was street worthy. Just on a brief break. It will be back. I can leave black marks up your driveway for proof hah

[rrmccabe]

Yea OK so that is your story.

Its on a break? Its always on a break.

If you burn out on my driveway you better watch out for your mom's raccoon. She would KILL you if you clipped him.

1334

[Drifte]

Keeping myself busy while I save for parts and garage stuff. Doing the usual preventative maintenance or whatever you want to call it. Since this is a newer truck instead of por15 I used a spray on rust inhibitor, satin black. Looks more factory than a gloss finish. Doing the frame and suspension components etc. High heat paint for the rotor hub area so it doesn't rust and looks nice. The calipers are aluminum, trying to decide what to do there to make those look better. Scrubbed out the wheels too while they were off, gotta be good for like .00003mpg?
http://i.imgur.com/PkplUR1.jpg

[derek072887]

Keeping myself busy while I save for parts and garage stuff. Doing the usual preventative maintenance or whatever you want to call it. Since this is a newer truck instead of por15 I used a spray on rust inhibitor, satin black. Looks more factory than a gloss finish. Doing the frame and suspension components etc. High heat paint for the rotor hub area so it doesn't rust and looks nice. The calipers are aluminum, trying to decide what to do there to make those look better. Scrubbed out the wheels too while they were off, gotta be good for like .00003mpg?
http://i.imgur.com/PkplUR1.jpg

Whats up with that bumper fitment? That factory or were you messing around with that as well?

[Drifte]

I was going to mention that. I think the previous owner was messing with it or something. Seems a little off even for Chevy, thats my next job.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lNJAD_Fzh9Y

[Drifte]

OK, Aside from the cost of parts I just encountered, Im actually a little bit excited for the rebuild. If you didnt hear via FB yet, last night on a icy road while the tires were spinning I hit a pot hole and BANG, no forward gears. This is a super common issue, as the forward sprag is weak in these, especially under the 5,000lb weight of the trailblazer. I was in the process of driving from one side of the shop, to the other where Trevor and I were going to build a new 4" fender well intake, relocate the maf, and instal a corvette servo. manually shifting to 1st or 2nd or reverse I could drive. So I putted the 50 yards into the shop, and we got started anyway (we had beer, new parts, and chips).

Numerous examples of the same trans failure:
http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=99386
http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=68664

Rebuild kits:
http://www.trutechtrans.com/ACDelco-Parts-Page-1.html
https://www.700r4l60e.com/store/home.php?cat=14
http://www.ss-shootout.com/trailblazer_transmission_upgrades_phoenix.html

how to remove trans:
http://tbssowners.com/docs/06_07_Transmission_Removal.pdf

Heres some photos of the progress last night, the roads made a mess of it.

Heres the k&n intake on, with the giant windshield washer tank under the filter, heat soaking the intake charge.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20130718_013_zps8cea355e.jpg

and the K&N with the tank out
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140109_006_zps6789e86d.jpg

dirty huh?
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140109_007_zpsfaac841b.jpg

The new 4" mandrew bends
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/temporary_zpsa9d7c604.jpg

some junk
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_003_zps5d7a2cbd.jpg

My motivation was low, heres trevor cutting a big hole. actually was a super clean cut.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_003_zpsc0089172.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_004_zps941b8841.jpg

weight reduction
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_001_zps7c8d0f15.jpg

All this new space. E-fans would have made this a lot easier
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_004_zps8c2fbdfb.jpg

[Drifte]

Mockup and size comparisons
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_010_zps4eb7eb24.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_009_zpsa83759cd.jpg

More fitment, You may notice the maf is moved further down stream away from the heat (IAT sensor in maf gets heat soaked)
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_005_zps4dc413ce.jpg

All in! We did what none of the major manufacturers couldnt do, full 4" with stock fans, and fit the engine cover.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_006_zpsb63bbca7.jpg

temporary menards couplers at the maf
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_007_zpsb4aaeb30.jpg

new 4" turndown tip?
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_007_zps61ac087a.jpg

[Drifte]

Now its on to the transmission. At the moment Im waiting for a trailer, then need to arrange a truck that can pull that trailer with the weight of this pig on it. Get the trans dropped today and start going over my options.

1. minimum repairs, no upgrades $500
2. repair, some upgrades to typical failure points $800
3. major rebuild, stall $1500
4. convert to 2wd, repair, ruin tires
5. 4l80 swap, win lottery
6. RPM level VI trans $2800 + $250 shipping

I dont know where to start for buying parts for the trans. But it seems like I know a lot of the right people to go the right direction. Pics once the trans is out, oh the fluid looked good on the dip stick too.

part replacement list:

vetter servo
upgrade broken 28 sprag with Borg Warner 20 caged unit (require complete assm?)
http://www.makcotransmissionparts.com/A74658B.html
300m hardened output shaft (already has one?...)
SPX Beast Sun Shell
Machined reverse input drum (factory may be out of round)
Borg Warner High Energy 2-4 band (3/8" wider)
Input drum reinforcing sleeve
Billet steel hardened pump rings
Trans-Go SK 4L60 Shift kit - (Includes Boost valve and sleeve. Manually holds 1st-2nd-3rd to any RPM. Manually downshift to any gear at any speed with selector. Reduces clutch and band failure.) Summit carries pn#4L60E-HD2

sonnax 4th gear servo (maybe..)
Reybestos 3/4 z pack
master rebuild kit from Pheonix? seal kit
AC delco new separator plate
Over run sprag
3-2 down capsule
Case saver lug
Teflon pump bushing
deep pan with drain plug

deep oil pan with drain plug
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/tfs-1018/overview/

Forget teh $1k Yank, circle D 3200 stall converter $400
http://www.circledspecialties.com/p-6-gm-278mm-hp-4l60-ls-torque-converter.aspx

Dexron vi 12 qts
http://www.summitracing.com/parts/nal-88861037/overview/

The Gearstar 4L70E (http://www.gearstar.net/transmissions/gm/4L70E/) (Stage 4 only) is fitted with:

Custom Built Lock-up 10in or 11in Billet Racing with 2600-4000rpm stall
Master Overhaul Kit with Alto Hardened Kolene Steels
Raybestos Gen II Racing FrictionsFilter
New 28 Element Input Sprag High Capacity Upgraded Pump Assembly
New Hardened Pump Rings
New 10 Vane Pump Rotor
New Vanes
New Stator
.500 Boost Valve
Pressure Regulator Valve
Updated Boost Valve
Transgo Reprogramming Shift Kit with Shift Command
Bushing Kit
New Thrust Washers
Complete Torrington Bearing Kit for reduced friction
Heavy Duty Hardened Sun Shell
Heavy Duty Expanded Capacity Input Drum with Reinforcing Sleeve
High Rev Spring Kit
Heavy Duty 5 Pinion Front and Rear Planetary Gear Set with Sun Gear
300mm Hardened Output Shaft
300mm Hardened Reaction Shaft and Hub
Super Hold 4th Servo
Corvette Servo
Wide Carbon-Fiber 2-4 Band
New Valve Body Spacer Plate
New Shift Solenoids
New EPC Solenoid
New PWM Solenoid
New 3/2 Solenoid
New Manifold Pressure Switch
New Internal Wiring Harness W/New TCC Solenoid
New Electronic Speed Sensor
Inspection Cover (Polished Aluminum)
Extra Capacity Polished Aluminum Pan
Transmission Mount
30,000 GVW Hayden Cooler
Gear Ratios: 3.06/1.62/1.00/0.70

[AutoMods]

intake looks good.

sorry to hear about the tranny. you'd think they'd have a robust tranny in the tbss. if i was going to mod one into a nice dd and 600-700hp toy, i'd go rwd because of weight, gas mileage and reliability benefits.

how much is the 4l80 upgrade?

[Drifte]

About $850 for the conversion kit, plus transmission. Then whatever else it costs to stub the front hubs and make the awd go away.

[Clinical]

I'd just say screw it and go with option 3, at least if it's your DD you'll keep your AWD. If you're wanting to be racetruck though, 4L80 is definitely the way to go!

[Drifte]

Backed it onto Andrews trailer that my brother had to pull since it ended up being pretty heavy.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_023_zps4d466c4c.jpg

And the tear down begins.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_024_zps2fdb0ffc.jpg

Heres a pretty clear view of the new intake. Running a filter trevor had left over from a project until I order in my own.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140111_027_zpsee8c4135.jpg

Have to go back at it today to finish the job.

[Drifte]

And this just looks kinda funny.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/d140bf36-0c28-4d54-9db3-d8db623283a2_zpsd9694a2e.jpg

[BGjohnson]

#2 option man

Sound like you don't have any crazy power goals with it, just fix the short comings of the stock trans and enjoy it. And definitely do the 4" aluminum tip ;D

[Drifte]

Im leaning towards #2 as well. Most of the 2wd guys say they wish they were awd, and with my power goals (none) I slight build should hold the power fine. Steve has a 3400 stall from his camaro he ran for a little while then took off and sold the car. Might be an affordable way to get it to leave a little better. 2.1 60ft is embarrassing even if its not a race truck.

[stangvortech]

yea id go with #2 and get what you can for your budget.

[Drifte]

Just going to post photos at random here. My last post didnt go through, and Ive lost motivation. I'll label tomorrow. In summary, F&$% this truck, mostly the y-pipe.






Ratchet strapped the Y together to make enough room to get it out. Still really tough.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140112_017_zps17395837.jpg

wife helped, tiny hands got the starter out.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_171625_zpsed7244ce.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_181942_zps72c9704d.jpg
dinner
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_195626_zps8b6a0fb2.jpg

there is no method to this madness
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_201638_zps216f6d93.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_201749_zpsb3dcf51c.jpg

gtfo
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_201356_zps8cf19828.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/20140112_201638_zps216f6d93.jpg

[Drifte]

This a list of differences in the 4l60, 4l65 and 4l70. Interesting point, the 4l70 has a max torque rating of 400ft lbs. And came with an engine making 400ft lbs.

http://www.ls1gto.com/forums/showthread.php?t=310861

[civicex_1134]

i see that thing almost every morning.... i was wondering why u been drivin the beater. #2 seems like the logical choice tho. put a few upgraded parts in to hold the power better, maybe the conv. and just have fun with it. Looks like a whole lotta fun tho lol.

[Drifte]

Should have bumped this with my transmission work. Anyway, we all know by now my transmission failed and Im in the process of rebuilding.

Before I broke it, I put on new brake pads and rotors. This shares brake pads with the z51 corvette, and does a decent job of stopping. And the new rotors came with painted top hats and fins, saved me time. Once together we flushed the system of all old fluid with my vacuum pump and 2 big bottles of brake fluid later it was all clear.

I went outside my comfort zone of restoring brakes to factory finish, and painted these to match the body color. Or close.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/STOPPIE_zpsb8cecf07.jpg

Enough distance between caliper, and body to appear to match anyway.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_001_zpsd1dbaa5f.jpg
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/t1/1656294_10100403249467349_340736969_n.jpg
photoshop :)

Of course, theirs the intake, as mentioned in my other thread. Now a 4" FWI for much cooler air. As well as having moved the maf further away from the heat of the radiator and hoses.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140110_006_zpsb63bbca7.jpg

[Clinical]

God damn I want one. I drove Brad's (integra guy here) TBSS multiple times and it was such a great cruiser. Comfortable, powerful, and just all around felt nice.
I definitely can see myself picking one up eventually, the only that worries me is the transmissions. Apparently Brad's hadn't been rebuilt though, and he got rid of it with around 120k miles.
I'm sure after the fresh trans and a tune it'll be even more fun though. Do you still have that S10 for a DD? Don't think I recall if you ever said you sold it or not for this.

[Drifte]

My black S10 is now owned by a friend of mine. I still have the mountianeer, but hope to sell it and snag an s10 ss for daily use and potentially a future ls powerplant project.

[Drifte]

Transmission is completely torn down. Forward sprag as suspected had grenaded.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/sprag_zps355f8aa4.jpg

Everything else internally was in extremely good condition. Will be replacing a lot of parts while we're in there anyway. Photos of the process to come.

[Drifte]

Lunch break progress.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140127_008_zps5ceed13c.jpg

Valve body still on for the moment.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140127_005_zps3bc1f86e.jpg

These plastic organizers are almost identical to what comes with transgo rebuild kits, and I picked them up at walmart for $3.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140127_002_zps142eab0e.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140127_006_zps9b9a1786.jpg

So many things
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140127_004_zpsf4114c8a.jpg

[SaNdMaNsSi]

My black S10 is now owned by a friend of mine. I still have the mountianeer, but hope to sell it and snag an s10 ss for daily use and potentially a future ls powerplant project.

If you need an S10 SS, a guy I work with has one, and leaves it in our back lot pretty much year 'round. Please make him an offer on it, I hate it taking up usable real estate all the time....And, apparently, 99% of them came in black, and his is white...

[Drifte]

If you need an S10 SS, a guy I work with has one, and leaves it in our back lot pretty much year 'round. Please make him an offer on it, I hate it taking up usable real estate all the time....And, apparently, 99% of them came in black, and his is white...
My buddy had one in white in 03' and Ive wanted one ever since. See if he wants to get rid of it, I need to sell off the Lancer and mountaineer. Neither really interest me, so they get ignored.

[civicex_1134]

Not to get off subject by any means... but I to have always liked the S10 SS, but can sum please explain to me what makes it an SS? And the difference between a regular s10?

[Drifte]

The early years or year, of the S10 SS, was a standard cab 4cyl 5spd with zq8 suspension. That pretty well sums up the "SS" options, maybe color matched bumper/grill. Later changed to the Xtremes, which I had one of, but prefer the non kitted s10 look.

[SaNdMaNsSi]

The early years of year, of the S10 SS, was a standard cab 4cyl 5spd with zq8 suspension. That pretty well sums up the "SS" options, maybe color matched bumper/grill. Later changed to the Xtremes, which I had one of, but prefer the non kitted s10 look.

If I remember correctly, it's an automatic, but it's been awhile since I've been in it. If you can live with an auto, I'll ask him if he's willing to part with it.

[Drifte]

Dont know if I could do an automatic. Re-thinking the 2wd truck idea anyway.

Trying to source parts now is the tricky part. I dont want to buy several kits and have overlapping parts but each kit seems to have one thing and not another. Need to get a full seal kit from somewhere too. Going with the z-pack clutch kit that adds two discs and better clutch material, matched with a wider 2-4 band with carbon-fiber friction material with a 278 3400 stall. The rest of the parts are just beefier components, like that blown apart sprag.

[Ricky]

if you sell the Lancer and mountaineer to get a DD what will the wife drive? You need to expand the shed in the back yard to a barn.

I still see you in a miata with suspension and sticky tires. I want to do more auto cross this year and you should too.

[Drifte]

Brianna might daily the SS. Depending on how vehicles go, I'd like a truck. Miata would fit in the back shed as it is I think. Should have snagged the one I found this summer, but didnt move fast enough.

Parts Ordered so far:

1. Transgo HD2 shift kit $75
2. Trick Flo deep trans pan with drain plug $150
3. Corvette servo $50
4. acedelco oem forward sprag assembly $178
5. Sonnax smart shell kit $89
6. Sonnax pinless 1-2 3-4 accumulator piston $16.26
7. Sonnax pinless forward accumulator piston $14.42
8. Borg Warner 29 element silver forward sprag $51.79 (the only broken part)
9. Sonnax accumulator spring $13.44 (improves 1-2 shift)
10. Case of 12 quarts Mobile Dextron IV $72.86
11. Borg warner High Energy Carbon 2-4 band $22.84
12. Circle-D 3400RPM stall converter $450
13. Complete seal kit $51.14
14. new reverse drum $65
15. Raybestos 3-4 z pak clutch kit $69


$1368.75 in trans parts

Not including the new converter thats a really cheap trans build.


Grand total should be: $1300 ish. still under the estimate/budget of $1500

and somewhat unrelated, a 3" v-band so my y-pipe doesnt give me anxiety. New studs for the manifold to y-pipe, and maybe some gaskets, all ordered.

washer tank weld cap $23.60
v-band, china $17.99
gm5 wire maf extension wire (moved the maf..) $35

[Drifte]

So nothing exciting here. Waiting on parts, still sourcing some.

pump, scored sprag assembly and clutch packs in this pic. The new corvette servo top right. sonnax billet isnt an option for street use in addition to the shift kit.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/1dbba891-774d-495c-a9c6-f5539e911cc5_zps7d43b0be.jpg

Sonnax makes some parts to increase pressure from the pump, so factory pump will stay, the clutch packs will all be replaced.

[JacobS]

im expecting you to update this tonight

[Drifte]

You must be reffering to these parts. This pan is nice, makes the stock one look like a Chinese knock off.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpsbeb13006.jpg

Spent my Saturday so far cleaning parts

[Drifte]

Circle-D converter should be in soon. Went with a 3400 rpm stall, single disc still good for towing.

http://www.circledspecialties.com/images/product/medium/6_2_.jpg
http://www.circledspecialties.com/images/PRODUCT/icon/6_1_.jpg

[Drifte]

yey more stuff. clap hands.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpse1622c60.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpsbe0ffe1e.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zps11e67884.jpg

[JustinS]

Good work, when do the rest of the parts come in?

[Ricky]

Going to be a damn nice truck after this.

[Drifte]

More parts to come in the next week or so. Still a few to order, then its time to actually assemble the transmission. Out in the garage the parts that are removed are getting cleaned and painted. Should look nice underneath once its all finally done.

New forward sprag is a beast. comparison:

Stock:
http://www.transmissioncenter.org/HPIM1592.JPG
Borg Warner fully caged 29 element:
http://racetransmissions.com/700r4/images/700R4_29element-sprag_productG1.jpg

[Drifte]

I see this old guy every morning:
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/9a8707a9-6eb3-4ce1-823b-a96644c27a73_zpsafde6d65.jpg

The video to Mountainater

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbjI6OeS6uE

[JacobS]

you should have kept it...

[Drifte]

you should have kept it...
Nah, it will have paid entirely for my trans rebuild and it was time to pay it forward. I hope to see it on the streets a few years from now. Besides, have to make room for a new toy that is yet determined. quad, bike, miata who knows. Maybe build that shop out back sooner rather than later.

[Drifte]

Heres the rear drive shaft after prep and prime with rustoleum rust inhibitor vs the front drive shaft untouched. Once priming is done, it will get some matte black paint and may get the u-joints upgraded to the rear, and new for the front. That moving blanket is proving to be extremely handy. Mid sub frame in the background there all cleaned up.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/drive-Shaft_zps45bcb836.jpg

[JustinS]

You always go the extra mile with your vehicles, I would have just slapped those back in as-is.

[Drifte]

You always go the extra mile with your vehicles, I would have just slapped those back in as-is.
Haha, well thanks. I just really like restoring things, buying new parts is fun but just not the same.

The y-pipe in need of a clean up. But more importantly getting cut in half and adding a v-band in the middle.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/c40d4910-62c0-4ff1-a756-13f89e3ece09_zps0627fd9e.jpg

The driveshafts are finished here aside from possibly upgrading the joints.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpse336c7b4.jpg?t=1393250434

[Drifte]

New Circle D converter is in. Really nicely packaged, I can see why shipping wasn't cheap.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpsf57b4398.jpg

[Drifte]

Boring update. Starter cleaned up, painted blaaaack, and heat wrap. Hopefully reflects heat rather than holds it...Busy night, had to watch the new MCM and TopGear. Also picked up some replacement studs for the manifold to y-pipe. I ruined one at the time of removal, and they only come in a complete set.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/temporary_zps4c5265bd.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/temporary_zpsdb7caf57.jpg

[Drifte]

Spent the weekend fiddling with the trans stuff, but also had to update the lighting on the truck I've been driving in the mean time. The factory headlights werent working at all, just dimly lit candle lights. SO snagged some ebay units cheap that also really updated the look of the truck.

Friday night after work
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/WP_20140228_003_zps11b393c2.jpg

Old vs new, and the other original light was even worse looking.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/WP_20140228_005_zpscd5869ed.jpg

installed, but still wrapped in plastic.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/WP_20140228_006_zps59593e74.jpg

Overall an improvement, but not great output.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/WP_20140228_010_zps3e72d90d.jpg

[86svo9L]

Nice work on the TBSS!

It is crazy how much a new set of headlights cleans up the look of a vehicle.

[JustinS]

That your Dodge?

[Drifte]

Dodge is the family truck, it doesnt really get used a lot because it gets terrible gas mileage.

More on ebay parts. Sometimes you win, sometimes you dont get what you ordered. Had to try though, 2.5" ss v-band for the y-pipe at $25, shows up mild steel with chrome plating. Ah well. The my black Moroso aluminum cap with weld on bung came in. Needed that to fab the aluminum can for the washer fluid tank. Its not black, or the right shape. But it will do the job.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zps47a1deb6.jpg

[Drifte]

So I cannot decide which sunshell to purchase. I have 3 options, option one is keep the stocker, which I wont be, so two options.

Beast Sunshell. Everyones heard of it, thousands used it.

Sonnax Smartshell. Sonnax is a good company, they took a different approach, this unit is heat treated, and re-engineered as mentioned here.
http://ls1tech.com/forums/automatic-transmission/1517926-sun-shells-stock-2001-beast-sonnax-smart-shell.html

Any auto guys have any experience with either? My trans building buddy always used the beast, but the beast is getting a bad rep lately, and is often blamed for 3rd gear vibrations.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af280/mrvedit/Camaro%20Tech/4L60E%20Rebuild/IMG_0804.jpg

[Drifte]

Need
http://www.badlanzhpe.com.webshop3.arvixevps.com/images/products/BADSV250S.jpg

http://www.badlanzhpe.com.webshop3.arvixevps.com/po.php?cPath=37&pID=116&osCsid=1dcd94f1b329523794e683de0c2b99cb

[Drifte]

y-pipe is completed, lets hope it bolts back on.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpsc0f66bd4.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/e1da7d6b-fef9-415f-9802-e58d2c4ff569_zpsda3a2a71.jpg

[AutoMods]

who welded that?

[Drifte]

Trevor. Surprised it welded so well, considering it was used exhaust, with paint, and a chrome plated flange.

[Drifte]

Ok fun day, after reading and reading and more reading. Decided on the Sonnax reaction shell kit or sunshell. Because reasons.

No, kidding. Reasons are its lighter and better balanced than the beast, heat treated, and uses a different bearing style to reduce strain on the planetary gears bearing, which is prone to failure. And more...
http://www.sonnax.com/landing_pages/smartshell

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_T02PDnUbI

Managed to find the Sonnax unit for $89 shipped. Good bit more than the Beast, but I dont want to do this twice.

pic of the y-pipe assembled with the v-band. Purpose is the y-pipe doesnt actually fit between the frame rails on the trailblazers.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zpsb9cde4ad.jpg

[AutoMods]

Trevor. Surprised it welded so well, considering it was used exhaust, with paint, and a chrome plated flange.

darn, i thought you may have picked up tig welding

[Drifte]

Sonnax smart shell, new reverse drum, and raybestos z-pak are in. Assembly is in progress. pics with no apparent reason.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140310_005_zps3ec761f7.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140310_009_zpscf69e9d1.jpg

bearings with sonnax unit, not a piece of plastic.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140310_006_zpsd2e79aa3.jpg

left oem, right sonnax
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140310_010_zpsaf8c1be8.jpg

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140310_007_zpsb9380876.jpg

[Drifte]

Aside from several rebuild kits I have not including the separator plate, the trans is done. Once a separator plate comes in the valve body can go on, and filled with fluid. Put the pan on for now to keep things clean, and otherwise the build went really smoothly and all tolerances are perfect.

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/temporary_zps1d4ade4a.jpg

[Drifte]

3 months later, its home and I got to clean it up.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/temporary_zpsba949a43.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zps9698e5b6.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/temporary_zps4ca60eab.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/temporary_zps8949a9d4.jpg

New pan issues, the filter is hitting in the pan. And theirs some question as to wether the bolts are too long, that I can measure myself though. Any ideas for this filter hitting the front of the pan?
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140404_008_zpsd2a1eedb.jpg
Extension on the already deep pan filter for the extra deepness of the Trick Flow.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140404_006_zpsae01e084.jpg

Looks like maybe I could just take some material off the inside a bit and it would fit in. here you can see its cast to fit around it, but not enough of a relief.
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/drifte/TBSS/WP_20140404_004_zpsb599ee2d.jpg

[AutoMods]

call trick flow and see what they say

[Drifte]

Response from Trick Flow:


Subject


TFS-1018 Pan Fitment





Discussion Thread


Response Via Email (Harold)
04/08/2014 03:16 PM


We have never had this issue. You could grind the extra relief or send it back for an exchange, but i definitely see what you're talking about.




This is a cast aluminum pan, they would all be basically identical.

[derek072887]

does the 4L60 and the 4L70 have the same pan?

[Drifte]

does the 4L60 and the 4L70 have the same pan?

They are the same, the 4l70 gets its name from a couple newer stronger parts internally(everythings interchangeable). The cars tend to have a shallow pan, while the trucks get a deep pan (including my tbss).

edit: 09 there were some major changes made to the 4l70e installed in the tbss making them have parts that arent interchangeable.

[derek072887]

I was only wondering because Summit doesn't list that pan as working on the 4L70 but I don't see why it wouldn't if they are interchangeable

[Drifte]

yea, the 4l70 is rarely listed as an option for parts. Occasionally a manufacturer remembers to include it in its list of 700r4, 4l60, 4l60e, 4l65e and 4l70e. If I had a 4l80 it not fitting would make sense.

[86svo9L]

TBSS is looking good! How does it drive with all the upgrades in place?

There is a black one for sale here in Shellsburg. I always catch myself checking it out on my way home everyday. Looks like it possibly led a rough life though.

[AutoMods]

This is a cast aluminum pan, they would all be basically identical.

did you make sure the box matched the part # you ordered and/or part number on the pan itself?

[AutoMods]

TBSS is looking good! How does it drive with all the upgrades in place?

There is a black one for sale here in Shellsburg. I always catch myself checking it out on my way home everyday. Looks like it possibly led a rough life though.

how do you like living in shellsburg? i may have to stop out sometime when i'm visiting my sister in shellsburg. my sisters boyfriend has a clean 97 white cobra if you see it around town.

[86svo9L]

Shellsburg is great. Nice and quiet, commute is not to bad. You are more than welcome to stop out next time you find yourself this way.

I have not seen any other Mustangs running around town yet. Will keep an eye out. I have seen quite a few nice muscle cars sitting outside lately, hopefully those guys actually drive them and don't just sun them from time to time.

[Drifte]

My pinless 1-2 accumulator finally arrived saturday afternoon, so we only had a few good hours to get the truck finished. While we waited for the part, we decided to pick up a camaro trans filter and see how that fit. Bingo, they wanted the shallow pan with extension. Why they dont mention that in the instructions, no idea. So trucks all back together, got in some fluid and went to fire it up and nothing. The starter has gone bad in the last few months of sitting. No fun at all getting at that starter, but hopefully I can get it done tonight.

https://scontent-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1.0-9/1549365_10100441573830019_8273089004623576916_n.jp g

[Drifte]

Forgot to update this page. Truck is all good, been driving it all week, have about 50 miles on it. And finally got around to wiring an auxilary port to the stock stereo by tapping into the XM radio feed. Pretty simple to do, just tedious.

Ive switched from photobucket thats constantly crashing, to using imgur, we'll see how that works. They seem to be huge pics so I'll just link them.

headphone jack
http://i.imgur.com/mJVNnBJ.jpg

cat5 cable soldered in
http://i.imgur.com/2AMQNM4.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/ZFxmPub.jpg

shrunk over
http://i.imgur.com/Mdou5ZP.jpg

tapping into the xm inputs
http://i.imgur.com/UCAC9IS.jpg

and shrunk
http://i.imgur.com/p22ndzZ.jpg

and it works. just switch to the xm radio input on the radio and I can listen to XM or switch by just plugging into the head phone jack.

now I just need to tap into the bose amp for signal to get to the kicker
http://i.imgur.com/3niBjOr.jpg

[Drifte]

Not sure if I ever got back on here to review how the trans feels, at just over 250miles. this is all still running on my tune from PCM of North Carolina. The 3200-3400 stall is phenomenal(to me anyway). Wouldnt even know it was there except in times I goose it from a stop (and my sub box slides back a foot). Haven't stalled it up on the brakes yet, will probably a blast and Im afraid I'll want to do it at every red light. Shifts are really quick and firm, 2-3 is almost indiscernible its so quick and smooth. 1-2 is still not where I want it, but improved, its actually perfect at higher throttle, low throttle 1-2 it still does that kind of slip-bang shift like factory. torque management is still untouched aside from tweaks PCM would have done.

250 more miles, trans fluid change and the break in is complete.

[AutoMods]

i'm going to need a ride

[oVa-Boost]

nice you got it running... for some peace of mind my tb ss just blew front differential i thought it was trans let go but ended being differential, gm sucked ass at making the front differential, failure of splines in the intermediate shaft and bearing assembly on the passenger side of the oil pan. The parts are lubricated by grease during initial assembly. The grease gets pumped out of the splines and never goes back. The splines become dry and they wear out due to the extra friction. Id check yours and re grease the shafts splines and check the splines on the intermediate shaft and replace any worn seals or bearings before it blows out on ya. There is no warning it just goes out.

Issues i had when it went out lost all foward gears d,3,2,1 and grinding noise had reverse and park thats it. Im happy i didnt pull trans out when i was thinking that was the problem after talking to flt and rpm $2800-3k for new trans level 5 with harden output shaft a must for these trucks $2100 for built trans rebuild by local shop but used z pak clutches which rpm and flt and a member on here and tbss owners member told me to stay far away from bad design of clutches there to thin and wrap rpm and flt do not use this type of clutch packs so it was flt or rpm. lucked out on trans after found out it was front diff but wont be any cheaper than a trans im sure hard to find parts and ver expensive if you do.

[Drifte]

I actually used the z-pak intentionally. Its designed to be used more in a truck situation not racing. I dont really race this thing, I rarely make use of its power honestly. But done right, the z-pak is a great clutch pak for a truck. Camaro, Id run something else for sure, and was close to running something else as it was. Im doing all the fluids here soon, and I can get a look at the front diff then. For the most part I drive my little s10 since I can toss my bike in the back. SO hopefully keeping the miles down on the TBSS, keeps the problems down too!

[rrmccabe]

So anything going on with this thing? You surely did not stop last summer?

Mine is in transition at the moment !

1893

[Drifte]

So anything going on with this thing? You surely did not stop last summer?

Mine is in transition at the moment !

1893

Over the winter in January I came across a car I couldnt pass up, and sold the TBSS. I miss it as a daily, such a comfortable truck. Even more disapointing is I didnt get it to the track. I sold it to this pretty cool kid who lived in tennesse and wanted it as a daily and tow rig for his camaro. I dont think he knew too much about it, but he raced it a lot, Im not sure the Camaro got to much attention for a while there. Last update he did a roll race (he never took the trans out of drive) and the truck downshifted to first. Made a loud bang and weird noises. Turns out he grenaded the front diff, and had it fixed at LS1 shop or something in TN. Where they said theyd never seen a trans built so well, and wanted to hire my trans guy right away!

http://i.imgur.com/2Hj12FU.jpg
Now it lives on some nice windy roads.

And this is about the only pic of my car on my work computer. but its an 06 sti, shown here with the winter wheel setup on I snagged on our local subaru group pages. You can get just about anything locally if its a Subaru part...its crazy.
http://i.imgur.com/o9EjllA.jpg

Did you end up going 4l80? Looks super clean.