1970-1978 Buick LeSabre Transmission Filter Kit: A Comprehensive Guide
Keep your classic LeSabre shifting smoothly by understanding its transmission filter needs.
- You must identify if your LeSabre has a TH350 or TH400 transmission before buying a kit to ensure the gasket fits.
- Symptoms like harsh shifting, whining noises, or burnt fluid often point to a clogged transmission filter.
- For this vehicle, quality aftermarket brands like Wix, ATP, and Premium Guard are reliable choices.
- Changing the filter is a messy but manageable DIY job that can prevent very expensive transmission damage.
Is Your LeSabre's Transmission Acting Up?
A failing transmission filter can cause serious problems. If the filter gets clogged, it restricts the flow of fluid. This can lead to the transmission overheating, poor lubrication, and shifting problems. Ignoring these signs can result in permanent damage to your transmission.
Common Ordering Mistake
The 1970-1978 Buick LeSabre could be equipped with different automatic transmissions, most commonly the Turbo-Hydramatic 350 (TH350) or the heavier-duty Turbo-Hydramatic 400 (TH400). These transmissions use different pan gaskets and filters. Before ordering, you must identify your transmission to ensure you get the correct kit. The shape of the transmission pan is the easiest way to tell them apart. Always verify your specific transmission type before purchasing a kit.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Transmission Filter Kit
For a vehicle from this era, aftermarket parts are plentiful and often meet or exceed original quality. The key is choosing a reputable brand. The filter itself is a straightforward component, but the quality of the included pan gasket is crucial for preventing leaks.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Good - Premium Guard: A solid budget-friendly option. Reviewers note that Premium Guard filters are decently made. Their kits often include high-quality rubber gaskets with fitted screw holes for easier installation.
- Better - ATP: ATP is a well-regarded brand in the aftermarket transmission parts world. Many users praise their innovative "third hand" gaskets, which have slightly undersized corner holes to hold bolts in place, making pan installation much easier. They are known for providing high-quality gaskets that prevent leaks.
- Best - Wix: Wix has a long-standing reputation for making high-quality filters for all types of vehicles, including heavy-duty equipment. While some users note their kit gaskets can be basic cork, the filters themselves are considered top-tier and a reliable choice for protecting your transmission.
Pro Tip: Regardless of the kit you buy, some mechanics prefer to purchase a high-quality gasket, like one from Fel-Pro, separately. This can be an extra layer of insurance against leaks, especially if the kit comes with a basic cork gasket.
Cost of a New Transmission Filter Kit
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Transmission Filter Kit | $11.74 - $56.59 |
| Shop Labor for Installation | $90 - $180 |
Cost estimates are for the part only and do not include fluids or shop supplies. Labor costs are estimates and will vary by location and shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my LeSabre's transmission filter?
For classic vehicles like the 1970-1978 LeSabre, a good rule of thumb is to change the transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 miles or every two years, especially if you drive it regularly. If the car sits for long periods, changing the fluid and filter is good preventative maintenance.
Is replacing the transmission filter a DIY job?
Yes, for someone with moderate mechanical skill, this is a feasible DIY project. It involves draining the transmission fluid by dropping the pan, which can be very messy. You will need a large drain pan, sockets, a gasket scraper, and a torque wrench. The job typically takes about 1-2 hours.
What kind of transmission fluid should I use?
Your 1970-1978 LeSabre originally used a DEXRON-type Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Modern equivalents like DEXRON-III or DEXRON-VI are suitable replacements. Always check the fluid specifications recommended by the manufacturer of the fluid you choose.
Are there any recalls for the 1970-1978 Buick LeSabre transmission?
Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database did not show any specific recalls for the transmission filter or widespread transmission failures for this model range. Any recalls from that era would have long since expired.
Technical Specifications
Fits General Motors TH350 or TH400 automatic transmissions, depending on vehicle configuration. Kit includes filter and pan gasket.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.