TF727 kick down linkage question

7

77SSII

Member
Hey all,
does that kick down linkage effect how the transmittion shifts?
I had my tranny freshened up a long time ago and didn't get the truck running for a long time after.
When I did it, I had the shop do the worst possible thing and make it shift buttery smooth.
First to second gear shift happens way too soon and was wondering if that linkage would have any effect?
A friend mentioned a transgo kit would be a great investment. I'd like to do it but would like to make sure I have it "maxed out" on the improvements / tweaks with the stock set up.
 
Yes! While it is often referred to as a kd linkage, it is actually a throttle pressure linkage. It plays an important role in controlling both up and down shift points. There is a clevis fitting which slips onto a pivot bracket that is bolted to the intake. This is the adjustment fitting. Turning the clevis ccw lengthens the rod which extends the duration between upshifts. Cw turning does the opposite. By the book, the starting point is to slip the clevis end off the pivot bracket. Ensure that the throttle is completely closed. The clevis should easily slip onto the pivot shaft without any tugging or pushing. I've found this method gives me shift points that are a little too quick for my liking under normal acceleration. So what I do is block the throttle wide open. Then I manipulate the rod rearward by hand until it as nearly as far back as it can be with only a fractional amount more rear travel. Then I adjust the clevis rod so that it easily slips over the pivot bracket. This gives me shift points that are much more to my liking with very responsive downshifts under hard throttle. The buttery soft shifts are what granny kettle likes while she drives down to get her hair and makeup done. Smooth shifts means excess friction. Friction means heat. Heat kills transmissions. The tf's especially like to be shifted with authority.
 
Ah ha!
Awesome! Thank you very much! Drives completely different!
Do you believe in the transgo kits?
 
Good deal! Glad that made a difference. When a trans doesn't respond to that adjustment, that means it has some issues. I have no personal experience with the transgo product, but I have no reason to disbelieve in it. Everything I've ever read or heard about it 2nd/3rd person has been positive. I want to install one in hooty Scout. That trans was rebuilt over 10 years ago. Still shifts great, but its developed a leak at the shift shaft seal...very common issue. Its time to change the fluid and filter and adjust band tension anyway. Not too much more trouble to drop the vb out for easier shaft seal removal. That would be the opportune time to install the kit. Fundage to do everything at once is the limiting factor at the moment.
 
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