Ok, I have been reading this forum for quite a while and I still have to ask for myself.


1. I gather the suncoast level 3 is installable by a modest/decent mechanic. I have done everything on my 65, and I mean everything. This kit is installable with no specal tools (like the countless specalty tools a 700r4 needs).


2. What are TAP cells, what do they do, where are they located, do they get messed up and how?


3. Why upgrade a trans that is currently working well with a HJ if I have no plans to stack or add the attitude. Why not wait till the clutches get burnt up then upgrade. After all the SC comes with all new clutches correct? We arn't talking about any hard brakes like a input or output shaft, sungear or the likes are we? These arn't replaced by the kit, its mainly clutches and the triple disk converter, and a boost valve.


Thanks for your input and clarification.

A hot Juice has the ability to ruin a transmission.........


It is an under-rated performer...........


My old Hot OJ without the Attitude would consistantly put down 385-400 RWHP and 775-800 Tq at the rear wheels.


I know I was not getting full power to the ground in 5th.........and when everyone sees the PICS of my old C2'3 and C3's you'll see why.


Thttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Embarrased.gifNYEdited by: GMC-2002-Dmax

Here are my toughts on your questions:

1. I have done my upgrade myself with no prior experience. However, my kit was a level II and the level III includes clutch packs located in the back part of the tranny wich I didn't open. Can't talk about this part. I didn't had it at the time but I strongly suggest you order an Allison Tranny Book from Mike L. Here's the topic:

http://dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=10127&PN=1

This topic is very good describing the tools and procedure.

http://dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=12325&PN=1

2. I don't have the exact technical answer to that but TAP cells contains values ajusted (in the TCM) by the learning process of the Allison. They need to be cleared (By a tech II or other programmer) in order to restart the leaning process with the modified tranny. The general concesus is that this step is not mandatory but helps avoid strange shifting behavior and/or accelerate the learning curve of the tranny.

3. When you do the upgrade on your terms, YOU decide when your truck is down and when you get it back. A seriously ruined tranny while on vacations for example is not a cost saving situation if you can't tow your RV while 600 miles from home because the tranny slips like hell.


Hope this helps your decision process.Edited by: Maxter

When exploring the entire transmission the Transgo book is good but not complete enough. Having a Allison manual also is a must IMO and very benificial.


I wouldn't worry to to much about the tap cells.





Mac Edited by: Mackin

I paid a shop(I wouldnt take it to a dealership) 25$ to reset the taps. I would do it. Actually, after driving it for a couple days I did do it. The tech had a snapon scanner with an 01 cartrage and was having a bit of problems figuring stuff out. A call to Mike L. and he walked em through it and I was on my way.