The next step is to remove the old 1-2 shift accumulator assembly from the transmission. The 1-2 shift accumulator is located inside the round cylinder cavity on the forward, driver's side of the bottom of the transmission case. In the next photo you will see 4 round covers in the bottom of the case. The 1-2 shift accumulator is in the hole located in the top right of the photo.
The next thing you want to do is to compress the 1-2 accumulator assembly by use of a large C-clamp. There is a flat-ledge location on the upper side of the transmission case to lock the C-clamp on, while you compress the 1-2 accumulator by tightening the C-clamp.You will then need a good pair of C-clip pliers to remove the snap-ring that holds the 1-2 shift accumulator retainer in place.
Once you remove the snap-ring, simply loosen the C-clamp, and let the 1-2 Accumulator retainer come out. The entire 1-2 accumulator assembly should come right out with the retainer. Once it is all out of the cyclinder bore, inspect the cylinder for damage/wear. If it looks clear, simply wipe the cylinder with a piece of scotch-brite, and a clean cloth. The picture shows the entire 1-2 accumulator assembly removed, including the broken lower spring.
Install the new 1-2 accumulator assembly with the new springs, and lubricate them slightly with a small amount of clean mercon V fluid. I elected to leave the bottom spring out to firm up the 1-2 shifts. Push the entire assembly, including the retainer, up into the cylinder bore. You may need to use one hand to hold the assembly up high enough to re-install the snap-ring.
This is where alot of people stop. In the case of this vehicle, I decided to replace the 2-3 shift accumulator assembly as well, since the valve body was out. Unfortunately, I do not have any photos of this procedure. I will describe it for you. It is actually alot easier to replace the 2-3 shift accumulator assembly. The 2-3 accumulator is located in the opposite, rear corner of the transmission case. Simply grab the retainer with needle-nose pliers, and pull it down. Then, by putting pressure with your fingers on the inside wall of the 2-3 accumulator piston, pull downward, and it will come out. There is only 1 spring in the 2-3 accumulator assembly. It goes into the top of the piston. With a small amount of clean Mercon V fluid, slightly lubricate the new piston, and insert it back into the cylinder bore. I left the new spring out to firm up the 2-3 shift. Then, bend the three tabs on the new retainer outward, to hold it inside the cylinder. It should "snap" into place. Thats it.
