Replace the shift solenoid in the Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission, requiring pan removal, fluid drainage, and internal valve body access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Shift solenoid (Powerglide) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission oil pan gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission filter × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Dexron III ATF — 5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Allow transmission to cool completely if vehicle has been driven
4. Raise front of vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
5. Position drain pan beneath transmission oil pan

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove transmission pan bolts
   Locate the transmission oil pan on the underside of the transmission. Remove all 13 oil pan retaining bolts using a 3/8" drive socket, loosening them in a crisscross pattern. Leave two bolts at opposite corners partially threaded (2-3 turns) to prevent the pan from falling when fluid drains.
2. 2

   Drain transmission fluid
   Carefully pry one corner of the transmission pan downward using a flat blade screwdriver to break the gasket seal. Allow fluid to drain into the drain pan. Once draining slows, remove the two remaining bolts and lower the pan completely. Tilt pan to drain remaining fluid and set aside.
3. 3

   Remove transmission filter
   Locate the transmission filter attached to the valve body. Remove the 2 filter retaining bolts and pull the filter straight down to remove it. Discard the old filter and clean the filter mounting surface on the valve body.
4. 4

   Locate shift solenoid
   The shift solenoid is mounted on the driver's side of the valve body, near the center. It is a cylindrical component approximately 2 inches long with an electrical connector on top. Disconnect the electrical connector by carefully pulling it straight off the solenoid terminal.
5. 5

   Remove shift solenoid
   Remove the single retaining bolt securing the shift solenoid to the valve body using a 1/2" box end wrench or socket. Carefully pull the solenoid straight out from the valve body bore. Inspect the solenoid bore for debris or metal particles.
6. 6

   Clean solenoid mounting area
   Clean the solenoid mounting surface and bore in the valve body using a clean rag. Inspect for any metal shavings or debris that could indicate internal transmission wear. Clean the electrical connector terminal with brake cleaner and ensure it is dry before reconnecting.
7. 7

   Install new shift solenoid
   Insert the new shift solenoid into the valve body bore, ensuring it seats fully. The solenoid should slide in smoothly without forcing. Install the retaining bolt and tighten securely. Reconnect the electrical connector by pushing it firmly onto the solenoid terminal until it clicks into place.
8. 8

   Install new transmission filter
   Position the new transmission filter onto the valve body, aligning the mounting holes. Install the 2 filter retaining bolts and tighten securely. Ensure the filter pickup tube o-ring is properly seated.
9. 9

   Clean pan and mating surfaces
   Thoroughly clean the transmission oil pan using solvent and rags. Remove all old gasket material from both the pan and transmission case mating surfaces using a gasket scraper. Be careful not to gouge the aluminum surfaces. Wipe clean with a rag and inspect for any cracks or damage to the pan.
10. 10

    Install new gasket and pan
    Position the new gasket onto the transmission case, ensuring all bolt holes align properly. Lift the transmission pan into position and start all 13 bolts by hand. Tighten the pan bolts in a crisscross pattern to prevent warping, working from the center outward. Final tighten to 12 ft-lb.
11. 11

    Refill transmission with fluid
    Lower the vehicle to the ground. Locate the transmission dipstick on the passenger side of the transmission. Remove the dipstick and insert a funnel. Add approximately 4 quarts of Dexron-compatible ATF (originally Type A) through the dipstick tube, then check level before adding more. Start the engine and allow it to idle.
12. 12

    Check and adjust fluid level
    With the engine running at idle and transmission in Park, check the fluid level on the dipstick. The level should read between the ADD and FULL marks. Add additional fluid in small increments as needed. Shift through all gear positions (P-R-N-D-L) pausing 2-3 seconds in each, then return to Park and recheck level. Add fluid as necessary to reach the FULL mark.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly seated
2. Verify transmission pan bolts are tightened in proper sequence to prevent leaks
3. Double-check fluid level after test drive when transmission reaches operating temperature

Verification

• Start engine and verify no transmission fluid leaks from the pan gasket
• With engine idling, verify transmission shifts smoothly from 1st to 2nd gear during a test drive
• Confirm shift points occur at appropriate vehicle speeds (typically 15-25 mph depending on throttle position)
• Recheck transmission fluid level after test drive with transmission at operating temperature
• Verify no Check Engine or transmission warning lights are illuminated

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