Shift Kit Install
Transgo 350-1&2 Shift Kit
Turbo 350 valve body and internals (borrowed image)
Turbo Camaro was received with, and still has, a Turbo Hydra-matic 350 (TH350 or Turbo 350) automatic transmission. The Turbo 350 wasn’t released until 1969, so this ‘67 Camaro got one as a replacement for its factory Powerglide transmission. Interestingly enough, both transmissions are still very popular as their simple, yet rugged design is cost-effective for drag racing and muscle car projects. Obviously, there are several other modern transmissions you could swap in, for a price.
The automatic Turbo 350 is perfect for a daily driver (comparing to the original Powerglide at least), so rather than replacement, a shift kit is in order. A shift kit tightens the overlap between automatic shifts and because of this, provides a harder shift and helps to cut down on transmission wear. When moving to a performance application, such as a super or turbocharger, a shift kit is almost mandatory to prevent excessive wear on your transmission.
Turbo 350 valve body diagram
Transmission pan removed on Turbo Camaro
Once you’ve decided to install a shift kit, you’ll need to pick one out. In this case, a Transgo 350-1&2 kit was purchased. It comes with everything required (except new transmission fluid and basic hand tools) to complete the installation. The instructions were somewhat cryptic, but with the help of the manufacturer’s video it’s not a difficult job.
The hardest part will be deciding which springs to install, as you can choose between Street/Pro Street and Strip. The Strip setup was selected for Turbo Camaro, as a turbocharger significantly increases acceleration and load on the transmission. Everything is color-coded and impossible to confuse.
Don’t let the alien-ish appearance fool you; getting to and removing the valve body of a transmission isn’t very difficult. There are a few small pieces, but if you take your time and follow the instructions, it only takes a couple of hours and you end up with an instant performance upgrade.