401? Transmission questions

[C-85 816]

I’m still working on restoring my what I believe is a 401 and I’m trying to figure the transmission out.  According to the owners manual I found on our website, the drain is supposed to be on its bottom and fill plug on its left side.  I don’t see any plug on the bottom and this one has on plug on the top and a small one on the right side near the bottom, but I don’t think it’s at the bottom.  Anybody have more info?

 

C-85

 

 

[ri702bill 12,818]

That note would pertain to the then-new Unidrive on the 701.

Yours is the older 3 piece style. Maybe re-read that part or see if there is an online YT video on the 401 transmission??

[stevasaurus 23,805]

That 3 piece transmission is either a #5003 or a #5010.  It apears to be a #5010 looking at how the brake band mounts.  Either way, that transmission is wrong for a 701. You should have a 2 piece #5007 trans.  If the trans pictured is the one you are using, there is no drain plug on the bottom.  Just take out one of the lower side bolts to drain that trans...you may have to poke something in the hole to open it up once you take out a side bolt.  To fill...use the hole the shifter goes in. (2 qts 90 wt)

   Have you posted any pictures of this horse??  

[stevasaurus 23,805]

Here is a thread that will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about your 3 piece transmission. 

 

[C-85 816]

Thanks for the info, but now I’m confused.  From what I’ve learned from this group and what I’ve read, I think this is a ‘61 401, but I’m still learning!  My family got into the Wheel Horse business around 1980, so I have next to zero experience with the Suburban era and that’s why I so appreciate ALL your help! 

[squonk 47,890]

13 minutes ago, C-85 said:

Thanks for the info, but now I’m confused.  From what I’ve learned from this group and what I’ve read, I think this is a ‘61 401, but I’m still learning!  My family got into the Wheel Horse business around 1980, so I have next to zero experience with the Suburban era and that’s why I so appreciate ALL your help! 

By the controls on the hood it's a 60 400

Edited 2 hours ago by squonk

[stevasaurus 23,805]

If the above transmission came out of that horse and if that engine is a 4 hp Kohler, then for sure, you have a 400 '1960 and Squonk is correct.  Check the numbers on your engine.  The 1960 suburban had a spec # 31388A for it's 4 hp Kohler.  The 1961 401 had a spec # 41437A.    

[C-85 816]

I found these numbers on top of it, does this help?

[peter lena 10,016]

@C-85  bought mine new in 82 , still have it , went over to a 12 hp years ago , never had any issues  with the trans , regularly , years apart , drop  trans oil , use a hi mileage atf  as a  cleaning / flinging  agent , also put  miles and every gear / range  driving , at local  cul de sac , always  check my  lubes after usage , no  surprises , also  use , climbing /  gear oil  , read specs , grease lubricated  UNDERSIDE OF SHIFT BOOT ?  enhances sliding over  trans irregularities large tye wrap  just above  happy  boot  usage spot , insures its always covered , like a multi weight gear for winter usage . regularly  wiped down with  penetrating oil , no  rust or  rot anywhere. think  I WILL KEEP IT , PETE

[stevasaurus 23,805]

E18-0 is the casting date for that transmission.  E is the month = May. 18 is the day 18th. 0 is the year 1960.  Pretty sure you have a very nice 1960 400 suburban with a 5010 transmission.    Your engine spec will clinch it.

[C-85 816]

More pics

[stevasaurus 23,805]

For sure...1960 400 Suburban with the correct 4 hp Kohler and the 5010 correct transmission.  This thread will help you also.