C4 transmission question

[buell-eyed-devil]

I rebuilt a C4 trans a few years ago and never filled it with transmission fluid. It has just been sitting in my shop waiting. Do I need to pull it apart and resoak all the clutches or is it ok?

 

[wildbill23c]

I would think pulling it apart and soaking the clutches would be a good idea before throwing it in a vehicle and putting it to use, but I'm not a transmission expert, but I know they're not cheap to have rebuilt, so if you can pull it apart and lubricate stuff in it, I'd think it would be a good idea, and possibly save it from potential damage from lack of oil?

I'm definitely waiting to hear some replies from our more experience members as I want to know if it would make a difference or not as well.

 

[buell-eyed-devil]

It has been basically just put together. Other than soaking discs no fluid and never been adjusted

 

[adsm08]

I did something very similar with a C4. When I did have to take it apart right away all the clutches were still saturated, but reverse was not working. I wouldn't be worried about having lost saturation as ATF doesn't really evaporate, but you may have dry seals that won't work, if they weren't packed with vasoline.

I would say proceed if you wish, but be aware that you may have to take it back out right away if something isn't working.

 

[buell-eyed-devil]

I did lube seals with vaseline. So maybe it will be alright

 

[rusty ol ranger]

Run it

 

[buell-eyed-devil]

Update. Since I live in Central Fla I decided to pull pan and check it out. Evidently mud daubers like living inside a c4 as there was an old nest in the pan. Also water got in and left a nice layer of rust. All internal parts were perfect after cleaning and a new filter. Got all clutches and bands resoaking and ordered a deep pan off amazon so all is well. Does anyone have a breakdown of an 84 transfer case? Fluid was all drained when I pulled it but a little rain got in and I would like to give it a once over as well. It was a 2.8 C5 combo