Description

Allison TC 200, TC 300, TCA 200, TCA 300, TCORD 300 1970 Parts Catalog

Let me tell you something about these old Allison Torqmatic converters. If you’re trying to rebuild a TC 200 or a TCORD 300 without the right parts book, you’re going to end up with a pile of wrong bearings and a leaky stator. I’ve seen it happen. Guys order a “turbine” and get a part that fits a later series because they didn’t have the assembly number. This Allison TC 200, TC 300, TCA 200, TCA 300, TCORD 300 1970 Parts Catalog is the only document that keeps you from losing your shirt on returns. 74 pages of factory-sourced part numbers, cross-references, and ordering rules straight from the Detroit Diesel Allison Division. No aftermarket guesswork.

If you’ve ever stared at a name plate on a converter and wondered what all those numbers mean, you’ll appreciate page 3. It spells out exactly what you need: the Allison assembly number (A/N), located on the rear left side of the housing. Without that number you’re dead in the water. The manual tells you: “To use this catalog you must know the Allison assembly number (A/N) found on the converter name plate.” That’s it. No shortcuts.

MODELS: Which Converters Are Covered?

The catalog explicitly lists TC 200, TC 300, TCA 200, TCA 300, TCRD 200, TCRD 300, TCO 200, TCO 300, TCOA 200, TCOA 300, and TCORD 300. That covers the bulk of the 200–300 series from 1970. Each model is listed by assembly number in numerical sequence starting on page 1-1.1. You need to match your name plate to that list. If your converter isn’t there, this catalog won’t help you – but odds are it’s in there if it’s a 1970-era unit.

SERVICE KITS: Pages 12, 13, and 14

The manual flags service kits on those three pages. These aren’t generic overhaul kits – they’re factory-identified bundles. When you’re ordering, you reference the kit number and then the parts list for each kit. Don’t assume a seal kit from a later model will fit. The 1970 kits have specific part numbers that superseded older ones. Check the numerical index in the back of the book for history – that shows which parts replaced which. I’ve caught two shops using the wrong stator support because they didn’t check that index.

NUMERICAL INDEX: Cross-Reference Your Part Numbers

This isn’t a simple list. The index (rear of catalog) shows current and superseded parts. If you have an old part number, you can find its replacement. It uses footnote symbols: (RB) means replaced by, (R) means replaces. That’s critical when you’re trying to match a part that’s been discontinued. Without this index you’ll order a part that’s been obsolete for 30 years. The manual covers both current and superseded parts – something a third-party PDF won’t give you.

CROSS SECTION: Exploded View for Assembly

A foldout cross section at the back of the catalog shows the internal layout of the converters. This is the same view the factory used to train techs. If you’re rebuilding a TC 300 or a TCA 200, you need this picture to understand which shim goes where. The exploded view matches the reference numbers in the parts lists. I never trust a parts catalog that doesn’t have a cross section – you can’t visualize the stack-up without it.

HOW TO ORDER PARTS – What the Manual Says

Read this section before you pick up the phone. The manual states: if you order an assembly, you get all subassemblies indented beneath it. If you order a detail part and its number is starred (*), that part is not serviced alone – they’ll send the whole assembly. You want the turbine? Better know if it’s starred. I’ve seen a guy order a “turbine shaft” and get a entire converter housing because he missed the footnote. Page 3 explains this in plain language. The manual also warns: “All parts orders must be directed to your dealer – do not send them to Allison. Always include the model, transmission assembly, and serial numbers.” That’s still good advice even if you’re ordering from a modern supplier.

Source Validity: Why OEM Beats Aftermarket

This is a factory publication from 1970, printed by Allison Publications Services, part of General Motors. Every page has the GM part number SA 1039N. Aftermarket reprints often omit the cross-section foldout or the numerical index. They also tend to blur the part numbers – I’ve compared a copied version to an original scan and found three wrong digits in a single bearing number. The OEM catalog is the only source you can trust when the torque converter has to hold 200 psi of charge pressure. If you’re serious about rebuilding these units, get the original document, not a cheap scan.

Who Needs This Catalog?

DIYers who own a truck or equipment with an Allison TC 200 or TCORD 300 – if you’re troubleshooting a leaky front seal or a rattling one-way clutch, you need the correct part number before you disassemble anything. Professional mechanics rebuilding these converters for customers – you’ll bill more hours if you have to wait for wrong parts. Shop owners – keep this in your reference library so every tech can look up the part without calling you. The manual is small (74 pages) but it packs everything you need to order the right part the first time.

Related Manuals You Should Check

• Allison Torqmatic Converters 200-300 Series Parts Catalog – covers additional models and later revisions.
• Allison TC 200-300 TCA TCRD 200 1976 Parts Catalog – expands coverage to mid-70s changes.
• Allison TC 200 TC 300 TCA 200 TCO 200 TCO 300 1973 Service Manual – the companion repair procedures manual.

External References

For general background on torque converter design, see the Automotive Industry Overview. For the engineering behind Allison’s internal oil circuits, the Internal Combustion Engine entry covers hydraulic principles that apply to these units.

Q: Does this catalog include torque specs for assembly?

No. This is a parts catalog only. You need the separate service manual for torque values and clearance measurements. The service manual for the same models is linked above.

Q: Can I use this catalog to identify a converter that has no name plate?

If the name plate is missing, you’re going to have a hard time. The catalog organizes parts by assembly number (A/N) – no plate means no number. You could try cross-referencing physical measurements against the cross-section view on the foldout, but that’s a gamble. The manual explicitly says “You must know converter part number.” Best bet is to find the original vehicle or transmission serial number and trace it back to the Allison build records. This catalog won’t help you guess.

If you’re working on these old Iron Allisons, don’t waste time fumbling with incomplete data. Access the Factory Manual and keep it on your tablet or printed out next to the workbench. You’ll thank me when the part shows up and it actually fits.