Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Preparation and Planning:
* Identify the Transmission: Determine the exact type of transmission in your Cutlass Supreme (e.g., TH350, TH400, Turbo Hydra-Matic). This is crucial for sourcing the correct parts and repair manuals. The VIN plate or the owner's manual should provide this information.
* Gather Tools and Supplies: You'll need a wide array of specialized tools, including transmission jacks, various sockets and wrenches, a torque wrench, seal pullers, a transmission rebuild kit (specific to your transmission type), gaskets, seals, filters, fluid, and possibly a press depending on the complexity of your transmission.
* Obtain a Repair Manual: A factory service manual or a reputable aftermarket repair manual specific to your transmission is essential. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and troubleshooting information.
* Clean Work Area: You'll need a clean, well-lit, and spacious workspace.
* Take Pictures and Notes: Document every step of the disassembly process with photos and notes. This will be invaluable during reassembly.
2. Transmission Removal:
* Disconnect Components: Disconnect the driveshaft, linkage, cooler lines, and any electrical connectors.
* Support the Transmission: Use a transmission jack to support the transmission's weight.
* Remove the Transmission: Carefully remove the transmission from the vehicle, following the instructions in your repair manual.
3. Disassembly:
* Carefully Disassemble: Follow your repair manual meticulously. Note the order of parts, their orientation, and any special procedures.
* Clean Parts: Thoroughly clean all parts with a suitable solvent. Inspect each part for damage, wear, and breakage.
* Assess Parts: Replace all worn or damaged parts, including friction plates, steels, seals, gaskets, filters, and clutches. Your rebuild kit should contain most of these.
4. Reassembly:
* Follow Instructions: Reassemble the transmission precisely in reverse order of disassembly, referring to your repair manual at every step.
* Proper Torque: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts and nuts to the specified torque values. Incorrect torque can lead to leaks or component failure.
* Check for Leaks: After assembly, check for leaks by filling the transmission with fluid and inspecting for leaks.
5. Installation:
* Install Transmission: Carefully install the rebuilt transmission back into the vehicle, again using a transmission jack.
* Reconnect Components: Reconnect all the components that were disconnected during removal.
* Fill with Fluid: Fill the transmission with the correct type and amount of transmission fluid. Consult your manual for specifics.
6. Testing:
* Test Drive: After reinstalling, test drive the vehicle carefully, paying close attention to the transmission's shifting and performance.
Important Considerations:
* Safety First: Working on a vehicle can be dangerous. Use appropriate safety equipment, including jack stands, gloves, and eye protection.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable with this level of repair, consider taking your transmission to a qualified transmission shop. The cost of a professional rebuild might be less than the cost of making mistakes during a DIY rebuild.
* Special Tools: Many specialized tools are needed for this job (e.g., a transmission press, seal installer, etc.). Renting these may be more cost-effective than buying them, especially if this is a one-time project.
This is a simplified overview. The actual process is far more complex and requires a deep understanding of automotive transmissions. Again, consulting a detailed repair manual specific to your transmission is absolutely critical. Without that manual, attempting this repair is highly risky.
