Dead Tranny Ouch!

[COExploder]

My expo's automatic tranny has been dying for the last couple months and finally totally crapped out and quit. I was going to get rid of it but couldn't. I'm thinking about replacing it myself but i'm not sure where to start. Should I pull out the engine or can I get to everything from underneath?

 

[bandlow]

I'm not an expert but I noticed there weren't any replies to your post yet.

Step one is to get a Chilton's or Haynes manual and review the transmission removal procedure to see if you really want to deal with it.

The transmission can be removed from underneath without removing the engine.

The most important thing is to have a way to _safely_ support the vehicle while you work underneath. The second most important thing is to have access to adequate tools. (AutoZone has a free rental program for many tools.) Borrowing or renting a transmission jack is necessary when removing the transmission.

You have to balance the cost of tools, parts and time against the cost and speed of having the work done.

Hope this helps.

Rich

 

[JDraper]

Replacing a tranny is not that tough a job. It can be done by one person in a half a day if it is just a straight swap out. You should rent/borrow a tranny jack, but that is the only specialized tool you will need. Getting a Chiltons or Haynes manual is definitely a plus.

You don't have to take the engine out to do it. Here's the short version. (note, lots of small steps may be missing. Consult manual!!)

1. Raise vehicle on 4 jackstands or on ramps. MAKE SURE VEHICLE IS SECURE!!!!!

2. Disconnect battery, drain tranny of fluid

3. Disconnect tranny fluid lines, shifter, wiring harness's

4. Disconnect drive shafts and wiring harness's from Xfer case.

5. Disconnect exhaust pipes from exhaust manifold (makes getting the tranny out MUCH easier)

6. Unbolt xfer case and remove using tranny jack.

7. Support tranny with tranny jack. Unbolt tranny support cross memeber from frame. Unbolt tranny from engine. Slide tranny back and remove.

8. reverse above to install. MAKE SURE YOU RECONNECT THE FLUID LINES AND FILL NEW TRANNY WITH FLUID!!

If you are somewhat mechanically inclined and have access to a decent set of tools, it's not too bad a job. Worst part will be getting the bolts loose since they have probably been in there since '91.

Good Luck!!

 

[espnfreak]

so are you guys saying that i could save big money if i did a tranny swap myself? i have a wide array of tools available. but for future use i would like to know. thanx

 

[COExploder]

here goes nothing

thanks for the advice. I'm mainly replacing it myself because I want to take it apart and see how it works! I have the chilton's manual around here somewhere...it's good to know I don't have to pull the motor!

--Jon

 

[HIX]

There is a guy in town here that has an auto tranny for sale......

 

[bandlow]

Jon,

Like you I like to take things apart to see how they work and I'm preparing for the inevitable day when my 4R44E will finally give up. I am lining up sources for rebuild kits and collecting reference material.

Chilton's will serve you well for removing the transmission but if you are going to take it apart, I would recommend getting a manual from ATSG. (Enter "ATSG Transmission Repair Manuals" in your Web browser.)

It is transmission specific and has all the detail you need for a complete rebuild. It's about $15 and well worth it.

Haynes has a Techbook on Ford automatic transmission overhaul. It is for the older transmissions but gives some good general information and some useful workarounds for the special tools.

I'm interested in how your project turns out.


Rich