71 Riviera Transmission Swap?

Discussion in 'The "Juice Box"' started by jhems17, Oct 18, 2018.

  1. jhems17

    jhems17 Well-Known Member

    Hello, I have a 71 Riviera with the original transmission with 103K on it. leaks a little from sitting (been trying to drive it more). I have a 72 Riviera with original transmission and only 73K on it and it has been sitting for 6 years. I will be swapping out components to convert the 71 from column shift to the 72's console shift. My question is, would it better to rebuild the 72's with lower miles and swap it along with the linkage or just keep using the 71's original transmission and swap the linkage only? Or reuse the original and just have it rebuilt? Thanks for any advice.
     
  2. jhems17

    jhems17 Well-Known Member

    Sorry if this is in the wrong section.
     
  3. pbr400

    pbr400 68GS400

    Unless the leak is bothersome I’d keep an eye on fluid level and do nothing until it breaks. Just swap linkages. Turbo 400s are very well built transmissions; there are many many miles left in both of yours.
    Patrick
     
  4. black70buick

    black70buick Well-Known Member

    Just driving more may allow the transmission seals to soften by the fluid lubricating them again and the leak may actually go away.
     
  5. GSX 554

    GSX 554 Gold Level Contributor

    Determine where the leak is coming from and fix it .
     
  6. knucklebusted

    knucklebusted Well-Known Member

    I'd try to find the leaks and seal them if possible, too. Some overlooked spots that can leak besides the obvious front, rear seals and pan are the shifter lever seal and the speedo drive seal. I've even had to replace the speedo driven gear due it having a deep groove worn into it.

    If all else fails, when it gets a little low, you can add Type-F fluid to a Turbo 400 safely. The Type-F fluid differs slightly from the Dexron in that it will swell the seals slightly. That can help solve a front or rear seal leak.
     
  7. BRUCE ROE

    BRUCE ROE Well-Known Member

    The external leaks are not a matter of serious concern. But any 40 year
    old trans build is vulnerable to blowing an ancient rubber internal piston
    seal, losing pressure and burning up clutches which will seriously damage
    the trans.

    With low miles, all the hard parts may be just fine, very low wear. Then
    all that is needed is a $30 internal seal kit to be good for more decades.
    Trouble is, labor is about the same as an overhaul if not DIY. Bruce Roe
     
  8. Quick Buick

    Quick Buick Arlington Wa

    Throw a half a cup of brake fluid in it. It puts new life in old seals...
     

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