i have replaced the solenoids in my tranny roughly 17~20K miles ago. bolt cleaning and prep is the KEY to this job. and this job is my least favorite to-date. i have done all the normal tune-ups and brakes, control arms, steering ends, shocks and springs, radiators, waterpumps, PNP switch, starters, window regulators, and timing belts... but the tranny solenoids was really not great. partially because i have no lift, but i did use car ramps and jacks, etc...

the percussion wrench is a great suggestion and some sort of PB-blatster/WD40 is important. the bolts are shallow and TIGHT. also, cleaning off the old and replacing the new gasket can be a real pain in the a$$ too. and the whole time tranny fluid is slowly dripping out while you work. it aint wonderful.

BUT, it is still running and shifting better than it was,. now, it isnt buttery and Smooooth like a new one, but it IS improved.


good luck!
--
-woodsy; 280k 1995 850 wagon;