727 output shaft slop

[GingerCowboy]

So, I have pulled the tranny, didn't want to, bu didn't think I had a choice, now I see that I May have been able to fix this with the tranny still in place and just pulling the adapter off. The issue was/still is, that there is 3/8" slop in the rear output shaft (in and out, not up and down). I think I understand that there should be some sort of "retainer" between the bearing on the output shaft , between the adapter housing and the double gear that enters the transfer case. Mine had none, and the transfer case was full of atf. This wasnt the first indicator though, the truck, when throttled down, and released quickly, would rattle somewhere between neutral and 2h. The shaft was pulling the double gear out of the transfer case far enough to disengage it and let it rattle inside the transfer case. I would like to solve this issue but have no idea which rebuild kit to buy, or if it is repairable... Any suggestions?

Thank you,

loren

 

[Scoutboy74]

Actually, I think you'll be glad you pulled it. The end play of the output shaft is all determined inside the trans. I think you're the one I was discussing a similar issue with a week or so ago. Anyway, there are selective springs and selective thrust washers in various positions throughout the internal assembly of the transmission. There are also a series of clutch discs and spacer shims that comprise the front and rear clutch assemblies. All of the above are taken into account when setting up the output shaft end play. I have a hunch that your trans been torn down and reassembled at some point in the past. Its possible that whoever did the work omitted a critical thrust washer etc, or perhaps one of them broke during assembly unbeknownst to the assembler and it is resting harmlessly in the bottom of your fluid pan. At any rate, you're not going to cure the slop in your output shaft from the outside of the trans. I think I said this before, but if not I'll say it again now...your trans needs to be torn down for an autopsy to see why the shaft has excessive play. You've got it out now, so you're well on your way. Don't stop while you've got forward momentum.