Topic: Transmission upgrade for Trans Sport (GM 60' 3.4 L V6)

[Squishy]

The car currently has a dead 4T60E transmission - is there a more robust transmission that will work with both the 3.4 L V6 and the Pontiac Trans Sport PCM?  Even a manual transmission would work but I'm not sure how easily the U-bodies would take to such a conversion.

[barrie1]

I don't believe a manual tranny was made for this model so you are somewhat stuck with the current tranny model. You can have it built your way with heavier clutchs and possibly even a few more in the casing as well. A more agressive shift setup is also available for any of the GM automatic trannies. Its usually worth the extra dollars to spend on a rebuild like this as you will only do it once as long as you do the service maintenance on them like Normal. Thats also the main reason why they fail if you don't give them any service at all or at too long a time frame in between. 

[Squishy]

I don't think there was ever a manual offered in the U-bodies either, but they were offered on the 3.4 L in other cars.  I guess the biggest problem with that would be matching up halfshaft lengths.

I read an online account of someone trying to swap a 4T65E-HD in place of a 4T60E and failed - something to do with the HD having electronically controlled line pressure.  There is a unit out that will control the HD independently of the PCM, but that itself costs $800 so it won't be an option.

[barrie1]

You can have a driveshaft made in any length you need and thickness of material as well. My truck has a 2 piece driveshaft which I have custom made with oversized Ujoints to help me out when I do any serious racing or spinning of the tires. It even helps with heavier loads I on occasion do carry. 

[Squishy]

I know about custom driveshafts, but what about halfshafts?  The U-body minivans are all FWD.

[barrie1]

I would suspect you could at the odd custom tranny shop. Its amazing just how strong the build of a tranny or other relating partscan be  now and at somewhat a reseaonable price as well. Mine cost me $250. and the back half is spring loaded to some degree. Takes up some of the torq and dosen't do any damage as fast as the old one did. This also has a hanger bearing in the middle to add supoort as well as the driveshaft is too long to be a one piece to begin with. Some of the better shops can virtually fabricate almost anything.