4T65E Input Drum 1997, used and ready to install. Fits the 4T65E. Ships fast from the USA.
A 1997 to 2002 Buick Century, Regal, LeSabre, Park Avenue, Chevy Impala, Monte Carlo or Pontiac Grand Prix with 150,000 miles on it has a predictable list of 4T65E problems, and a slipping or cracked input drum is near the top once the unit is torn down. This is a used original GM input drum, sold as a budget alternative to a new drum and kit. It has been cleaned, polished and inspected, and it ships with the caged bearing and a set of reconditioned steels. You supply new frictions and seals, or pair it with a rebuild kit.
The 4T65E replaced the 4T60E for the 1997 model year, and from 1997 through 2002 its input drum works with serviceable sprag one-way clutches. The drum is splined to the input shaft and holds the input clutch pack and the 3rd clutch pack. In first and second the input clutch transfers power through the input sprag; on the 2-3 shift the 3rd clutch comes on. Apply oil for both reaches the drum through three solid Teflon rings that seal inside the driven sprocket support, so the drum, its rings and the support all have to be right for either clutch to hold. These early units use 32-tooth input frictions, which is the quickest way to tell them apart from the later design.
The input drum is not the only part that produces a late Drive or a 2-3 flare. Low fluid, a sticking pressure control solenoid and a worn driven sprocket support all do the same thing. Start with the 4T65E common problems guide and the delayed engagement guide, then confirm on the bench: air check each clutch through the support, look for scoring at the ring lands, and spin the input sprag to make sure it holds in one direction only. If your complaint is no 4th gear rather than slip, read the 3-4 clutch failure guide, since stripped 4th clutch hub splines cause that and the drum does not.
This drum is the 1997-and-later GM housing and is the right match for sprag-design 4T65E transaxles built from 1997 through 2002. In 2003 GM moved to pawl one-way clutches with 30-tooth frictions, and Transmission Digest says the two systems must not be mixed; 2003-up owners should use our 2003-up input drum. If you would rather have a new drum with a complete overhaul package, see our new 4T65E input drum and kit. Check your transaxle ID tag and old frictions, or send your year, model and VIN. Every 4T65E part we stock is on the 4T65E parts page.
| Fits | 4T65E 1997 |
| Part type | Input Drum |
| Condition | Used |
| Brand | OEM |
| Ships | From the USA |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Doing this repair right usually means replacing these at the same time. Same transmission, ships together.
It is the GM 1997-and-later housing and matches sprag-design 4T65E units from 1997 through 2002, which includes a 2000 Grand Prix. Confirm with the ID tag and your old 32-tooth input frictions.
It includes the caged bearing and reconditioned steels. Frictions and seals are not included, so pair it with a rebuild kit.
A good used GM drum that has been cleaned and inspected costs far less than a new drum and kit. If the rest of your unit is sound and you already have frictions and seals, it is the economical choice.
Heat and lost oil pressure. Worn ring lands, a worn sprocket support or low line pressure let the input and 3rd clutches slip, which overheats the drum and burns the frictions.
DEXRON-VI. GM lists 7.4 quarts on the 2008 Impala 4T65E, checked hot at 180 to 200 degrees F. Confirm capacity for your exact vehicle.
