has anyone....
 

rebuilt their automatic transmission themselves? how hard was it to do? what did it cost? im just curious.

I'm in the HD tranny class in DADC right now. We are "rebuilding" Turbo400's, some Allisons, and Fullers. So far, they are really easy to work with/build. It just takes alot of special tools.

In the end, unless you are properly trained, can get parts AND the correct MB tools, it's better to leave the work to the pros at a dedicated shop.

Good luck.

Not worth it, unless you just want to learn then get a junk trans and go at it.

Much as I'd like to, transmissions are a job I refuse to do simply because of the special tools required for the job.

pshaw! The "special" tools are usually those designed to make the job easier, not necessarily required. If you understand what you're doing, you can improvise adequate albeit cumbersome tools for almost anything. I rebuilt a chrysler minivan trans years ago - the infamous 4sp electric shift one that nearly always fail. Had to make 1 makeshift tool out of PVC pipe and threaded rod - no big deal. It was one of the most enjoyable automotive jobs I ever did. If you think you can, you're right. If you think you can't, you're right too.

Yes I rebuilt mine. cost about $200, thats for all the seals, friction material for the clutches and a new pressure modulator valve. I did not replace the bands, they looked fine. Get the "Automatic Transmission Service Group" manual it's about 15-20 bucks on the internet. I got the "borg-Warner" rebuild kit not the M-B kit. If the kit cost 100 instead of 200 dollars its th B-W kit. I had to make some tools not too difficult. If you can get a trans from a Salvage Yard You might want to do that. I did mine it was dead anyway. If you have a digital camera take alot of pictures to keep a record of how everything goes back together. Take it slow and keep things in order. A small solvent tank from Harbor Frieght is very useful. Be careful seperating the vavle body halves dont' drop out the check balls. It's not too difficult but you have to be methodical. Keep everything CLEAN. :p

I do not think the rebuild is that hard although I have never rebuilt a transmission. I think of it like rebuilding carburetors. But what about dropping the transmission out of the car and installing back in? Isn't hard to wrestle with a transmission under the car?

I would probably be worth getting a trans jack.

There is a very good thread from a forum member that did a rebuild - probably would be a good resource. Believe the forum member is dpetryk.