Another AT-545 replacement question.

[schooliefiend]

So, I recently purchased a 1995 Thomas/International school bus (summary sheet attached) with an AT-545 transmission (automatic). Given it's only got 4 gears I'd like to replace it and from what I've read here and elsewhere it looks like an Allison 1000 is the best to replace it with. Can anyone confirm that? I need to start hunting for one if that's the best way to go. Thanks for any pointers!!

 

[nikitis]

Yes, and there are some quirks you'll need to read up about.

You're going from an all mechanical trans to an electronic trans that uses a TCM so you have to buy one of those as well. You also need to get a 1000 from the year 2006-2009 with SAE3 bell housing.

Good Luck.

 

[schooliefiend]

Yes, and there are some quirks you'll need to read up about.

You're going from an all mechanical trans to an electronic trans that uses a TCM so you have to buy one of those as well. You also need to get a 1000 from the year 2006-2009 with SAE3 bell housing.

Good Luck.

I don't know much about transmissions (learning fast), but does it matter if the transmission is for a 4x4 or not?

 

[nikitis]

I don't know much about transmissions (learning fast), but does it matter if the transmission is for a 4x4 or not?

Yes a 4x4 likely won't have SAE3 bellhousing so it won't fit the bus. You could potentially use the transmission if you swap the bell housing but it's another thing you'd have to buy and swap out.

 

[Omnibot2000]

Or look for a 2000 series that was mated to a t444e. Same trans in the grand scheme of things

 

[Omnibot2000]

Or sell it and look for an Allison 2000 bus.

 

[cadillackid]

Or look for a 2000 series that was mated to a t444e. Same trans in the grand scheme of things

that would only be a 5 speed..



maybe the OP is OK with 5 gears.. im only guessing the ywould want 6 when mentioning 545 only having 4

 

[Omnibot2000]

They can be changed over to a 6 speed with valve body swap. The GM guys were doing it.

 

[Omnibot2000]

Besides. You can get a 2xxx series in 6 speed as well.

 

[cadillackid]

They can be changed over to a 6 speed with valve body swap. The GM guys were doing it.

valve body, connector, harness, TCM..


much easier to find a 2000 series from a VT-365 or later DT-466E ..


the TCM's from the Maxxforce engines likely wont work because of SEM but the transmissions and harnesses will..

 

[schooliefiend]

valve body, connector, harness, TCM..


much easier to find a 2000 series from a VT-365 or later DT-466E ..


the TCM's from the Maxxforce engines likely wont work because of SEM but the transmissions and harnesses will..

Thanks for the info! With regard to an Allison 2000 that was mated with a VT-365 or DT-466E, do I need to worry about a particular year(s)?

 

[AzironaZack]

I'm near completion of an AT545 to 6 speed Allison 1000 swap on my 1990 International 3700 (7.3 IDI). It's been a huge job, but I also did a lot of important work while the trans was out.

I'm working with Jason at Home | Transmission Tuner . He has been fantastic to work with and I highly recommend him. He has lots of great info on the site.