Auto Parts near Moscow, TN

“I purchased the BTE 408000 TH400 pan. I was impressed by the thick pan flange and machined gasket surface. I did not use the provided gasket, but rather, the Fel Pro TOS 18621. Used Wix 58881 filter. In order to take it easy on the trans case threads, I used 1 1/4" studs to retain the pan along with washers and nuts.Here are my observations and comments about the installation and product:I love the metal pickup tube rather than a plastic tube. However, I had to grind chamfers on both ends of the tube. I believe the tube ends were simply sheared or cut off which left a rather squared edge. This is NO GOOD. The cavity in the trans case is machined with no chamfer, so the tube MUST be chamfered by BTE or customer for fitment. The factory metal tube I removed was chamfered to allow fitment. I was able to get the Oring to hold the tube into the case, but a trial fit of the pan did not allow it to sit flat on the case. After removing the pan, I reinstalled the factory pipe and noticed it went way up into the case. That's when I modified the tube so it now would insert all the way into the case. I then installed the new filter with the provided longer bolt and filter spacer. Another trial fit of the pan revealed why the factory has a locating "wing" on the tube...it positions the tube correctly. I had to move the new pipe a couple times with channel locks to get it right. Now everything was installed and fit perfectly. Another thing I was puzzled about was the pan "plug" that was provided...a long bolt. I purchased a magnetic pan plug to complete the job. It was more detail work than I expected, but that's what you get for messing with cars, I guess. I am SO glad the pan didn't fit before I chamfered the pipe end, because if the pan seated onto the case, I would have buttoned it up and been done. I believe I would have had catastrophic trans failure from the pickup falling out later, or at least sucking air.Suggestion: Provide basic instructions with the pan. It is a good product. Not all the folks purchasing this product are trans rebuilders or very experienced. I would definitely chamfer the tube ends (at least the one that goes into the case) and specify the FULL engagement of the tube. Provide a better plug...I got a good magnetic plug for about $10.Pete Tilden”