1974 Cuda Trans Help

[moparroy]

I tore down the 727 for my 1974 Cuda 360 project yesterday. I long suspected this was a drag car back in the day and the condition of the front clutch again says so. The clutch steels are toast - burned up bad - the one so bad its warped. I am wondering if I need to replace the reaction / pressure plate - it shows some hot spots but not bad. See pic. I was thinking I would but was surprised this is not a common part. Drum looks like it got warm inside but looks fine outside. What would be the impact of reusing this plate?

When do thrust washers need replacing? I never replaced any on daily driver rebuilds I did. In this 727 they look ok - most wore orange on one side one is different though not sure if less worn as there is still some silver on the wear side. (pics) Washers not a common kit part. What about bushings - some kits have them - they look in ok condition - no grooves or anything.

I plan to replace the kick down band for sure. How do I know if the low / rev band is reusable or should be replaced? is there a thickness wear limit?

Noted the valve body is a 1971 part number and date code - any idea why someone would replace the valve body with a '71? Surprised that the valvebody does not show any signs of shift kit modification - thankfully - was expecting it would.

This is the original numbers matching 727 so I would keep it for sure. Any suggestions on how to compress the front clutch spring retainer?

Thanks
Roy

[RUNCHARGER]

Welcome to the forum from Vernon B.C.

[anlauto]

Can't help you too much with your transmission questions, but welcome to the best E Body website in the world from right down the street in Georgetown ON

[moparroy]

Thanks for the welcomes. Indeed great resources here. Used quite a few bits over the years working on this project. More years than I care to say. Only realized I never joined when these questions came up. Thanks. Let's hope Moparfest is back next year!