1. Transmission Removal & Installation:
* Transmission jack: Essential for safely supporting and maneuvering the heavy transmission.
* Engine support bar: To prevent engine damage during transmission removal and installation.
* Torque wrench: Accurate torque is crucial for proper reassembly. Multiple sizes will be needed.
2. Disassembly & Reassembly:
* Transmission specific socket set: Many bolts and nuts have odd sizes or configurations, requiring specific sockets (including deep sockets and various extensions).
* Various wrenches: Combination wrenches, open-end wrenches, and possibly even specialty wrenches for specific transmission components.
* Pry bars (plastic and metal): Used carefully to separate components, but metal pry bars risk damaging parts. Plastic is preferred where possible.
* Clutch alignment tool: Critical for properly aligning the clutch pack during reassembly. This is transmission-specific.
* Seal installer: To correctly install seals without damage.
* Bearing separator/installer: To remove and install bearings without damage.
* Valve body holding tool: For removing and installing the valve body safely.
* Snap ring pliers (internal & external): For removing and installing snap rings.
3. Cleaning & Inspection:
* Transmission fluid and filter: New fluid and filter are essential.
* Parts cleaning solvent: For cleaning parts thoroughly.
* Clean rags and shop towels: Lots of them.
* Micrometer and calipers: To accurately measure parts for wear and tear.
4. Specific Tools Depending on the Transmission Type:
The exact type of transmission in your Lumina (e.g., 3-speed, 4-speed, specific model number) will dictate some of the specific tools needed. Some transmissions may require specialized tools for:
* Removing and reinstalling planetaries: Specific tools are sometimes needed for removing these gears safely.
* Torque converter removal/installation: Tools are needed to securely hold and remove the torque converter. A torque converter wrench is usually necessary.
* Valve body rebuild kit: Specific tools are sometimes included in valve body rebuild kits.
Important Considerations:
* Transmission-specific repair manual: An absolute necessity. This manual will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams specific to your Lumina's transmission. Haynes and Chilton manuals are generally not detailed enough for this task.
* Experience: Rebuilding an automatic transmission is extremely complex and requires significant mechanical experience. If you lack experience, it's strongly recommended to have a professional perform this repair. Incorrect assembly can lead to catastrophic transmission failure.
In short, rebuilding a transmission is a major undertaking that requires a substantial investment in specialized tools and a high level of mechanical skill. The cost of acquiring all the necessary tools may exceed the cost of having a professional rebuild the transmission. Weigh the cost and risk carefully before attempting this repair yourself.
