rubber dust shield on transmission?

[kedaigle]

While changing my sway bar on my 01 LS8, I noticed that the rubber dust shield located on the front underside of the transmission was damaged. It appears to have been pushed inward by something. The innards of the transmission has rubbed a hole in the rubber shield. I don't know how long it has been like this. How much danger has the transmission been exposed to? I called the parts department and it's not an item that you can buy by itself. It's part of a rebuild kit that costs a few hundred dollars. I plan on using a 2 part epoxy for rubber to seal the hole. Any knowledgeable answers to my question as far a damage to the transmission? It shifts fine as far as I can tell.

 

[2001LS8Sport]

Maybe call a different dealer and check availability? It sounds strange you can't get that piece.

I can't tell from your picture where that goes. But looking at it, it can't be a critical seal. I wouldn't be worried about it.

How did the sway bar swap go?

 

[Fla02LS]

If i am correct that piece is on the front side of the bell housing. It isnt a big problem. Its just an inspection flap. It was all warped and crappy looking on my old '02 LS, didnt even cover the hole. The dealer replaced it for free when it was in for service. Call a dealer and inquire about a rubber inspection seal on the bell housing. I am sure it can be bought seperately.

 

[Jim Henderson]

Probably a dust/water shield.

I would replacve it if you can find one or repair it like you said.

You don't want a lot of dust or water getting up in the bell housing. Just makes a mess.

One way I fix things like this is to lay the piece so it sits flat on a piece of waxed paper or tape a piece to the backside. I then epoxy or silicone sela the other side. The epoxy/silicone doesn't stick to the waxed paper as much and leaves a flat surface.

Make sure the rubber is really clean before gluing it. You want the fix to last a long time. I usually use rubbing alcohol to clean rubber pieces. Don't use an oil based solvent, the oil will prevent the glue from sticking.

Good Luck,

Jim Henderson

 

[kedaigle]

2001LS8SPORT, the sway bar swap-out was a pain. I'm currently working on a tech article for it. It'll be posted soon. I did complete the job and the car no longer "clunks" over bumps. Today, I converted my fog lamps so that they will accept a 9006 bulb. I'll be working on a tech article for that also. Just trying to do my part by contributing.

Fla02LS, thanks. Now, I'll know exactly how to explain the pic to the service department.

Jim Henderson, I will do exactly what you explained in the morning.

Thanks, again, everyone.