Build the tranny, and then get gauges and a Smarty tuner.

 

Thats a typical problem, along with shuttle shifting, at low throttle opening that these units are known for. The gov pressure solenoid is weak and inadequate so you get some different shifting than should be normal. There are 2 differnt upgrades that will address that problem fairly well along with other tweaks to make it work better.

Shift kit, a couple billet servos, billet band apply parts and the stock TC will hold at stock power well. If you want a mild tuner then you need a billet cover TC or it will be a problem down the road. Unless you abuse it or want bigger power those few thing will fix the trans quite well.

 

Keep it stock and it will do all you want it to do!Then you will not need to spend a lot of money to sup it up to tear it up to spend more money.I pull 23.000 all over the south and out west with a stock truck. I did put a better air box on it but keep the stock filter.I change it at ever oil change. === good luck ===

 

I'd like to run just a slight slight tune... and honestly... I want it to shift much better. I dont mind doing tranny upgrades to improve drivability.

cerebus: are the items you laid out there all parts of a new valve body? Or part or none at all? (minus the torque converter)?

Also, if I were to go and buy a nice valvebody would I have to install a torque converter at that time, or can I buy part, install part, buy other part, and then install it?