Don't just look at this thread!!!I need suggestions!!!

[irtySanchez]

So here is the situation I am left with:

My 94 XLT has 135,000 miles on it. Yesterday, my tranny decided it doesn't like to shift anymore. To get it to go to the next gear, I have to take my foot off the accelerator and hope it jumps to the next gear. That is NO FUN!!

So this morning I decided to take it to a tranny shop and they decided that I need a rebuild. I talked with the manager and he said that a rebiuld will be between $1400 and $1800. He then said they take it apart, replace what is nessecary and then put it back together with a new torque converter.

I left and started to do some thinking. If they are going to have it apart, then i want everything replaced. If you are gonna do it, do it right. I know i can get a new tranny from Jasper for around $1800 and have a friend install it for $400. That is more of a guaranteed option, but a bit pricey. Should I install it myself. I am a knowledged mechanic, but this will be a backyard project.

So I am left with a dilemma. I want to spend at the most around $1800. I want the job done right and not have to worry again about it. this vehicle is my daily driver and I want to get 2 more years out of it. Other than the tranny, the Ex is in great shape.

Any input is help to me. Thanks everyone,

Brad

 

[rustytr]

I would suggest just getting the new one and doing it your self. It might be a backyard project but you can take the time to make sure it's right and that your tranny job wasn't just rushed through. I would shop around for a tranny but I can't remember what a real good deal is on em.

 

[PLRBEAR]

Get a second opinion...or even third. Could be as simple as a fluid flush.

 

[Sschultz]

It almost sound like the shift modulator went belly up.
Did the shop actuially take a good look, or did they just say the trannys bad?
If indeed the tranny is bad and you decide to do it yourself make damb sure the torq converter is properly seated ( and then double check it ) If it isn't aligned properly the converter will smash the pump and the trannys toast. ( I learned this the hard way )

 

[mikeresin]

i agree with plrbear. take it too some more shops. i would just go ahead and get it serviced (drop the pans and flush it etc..) and see if it makes it any better. if not then do it yourself.

 

[irtySanchez]

I did change the fluid about a month ago, but it wasn't flush. It was just the pan and filter.

 

[Chad Summers]

My 94 started doing that to when it would get hot.. I replaced the vacuum modulator thingy last weekend and it runs better than new now.. Pull a vacuum line at the back of the engine and see if there is tranny fluid in it, if so thats at least one of your problems.. Mine was about a $15 fix plus some fluid and a few hours of cussing till I figured out how to get to it.. btw, what kinda friend doesn't work for a case of beer? hehheh

 

[irtySanchez]

The vehicle is now at a second tranny shop with a gentleman who was a bit more willing to look the situation over more thoroughly. I mentioned the shift modulator to him and he said he will look into that also.

As for the case of beer situation, mechanics here in Columbus aren't so willing to work on trade. When I lived in Cleveland, I could get anything done on trade (I mean literally ANYTHING mechanically..) I guess a case of beer doesn't go so far in this town.

Keep the suggestions coming everyone.Some great input so far. Thanks!!!!!!

 

[Heath]

Talk to offroader_69_me he just did a tranny in his 1st gen explorer... I'm sure he's full of information...

 

[offroader_69_me]

As mentioned before I would check the modulator first just get under the X and right between the Catalytic converter and the tranny is a vaccum line just about the pan, pull it off if there is any fluid in it go get a new and try that for a while, if not then sounds like a tranny may be needed, I say do it yourself, it is not that hard just kinda time consuming and frustrating at times, I have been a mechanic for about 3 years, all self learned or taught as I worked by other mechanics and I pulled mine in a night and replaced it the next. If you do replace it let me know and I will try to help As much as poss.

 

[Bill Kemp]

I would spend an additional 50% more to get a Jasper tranny than have someone "try" to rebuild yours. I've never heard of anyone getting stuck with a Jasper.

 

[irtySanchez]

OK everyone, here is where I am at:

I hooked up with a shop that did an external check of the tranny. He checked for all the obvious things, then checked all of the external components, then checked the level and quality of the fluid. The shift modulator checked out OK (he said he DID remove vacuum lines looking for fluid). The only thing he noticed was that the fluid was sort of a yellowish-brown color and had a "varnished smell to it. He said the next step is to remove the tranny and check the internal parts.

At this point we started to talk some numbers. He said for just over $1000 he will change all the soft parts (clutch packs,bands, planetaries, bearings, seals, etc...) and the torque converter. If there are hard parts that need replacing, the price goes up from there, topping out at around $1700. This will include installation. I thought the price seemed a bit low, so I asked him about a warranty. Instead of 1 year, he offered me a 2 year warranty. He said he backs all of the work that he does and he stands by that.

So I am going to let him go at it on Monday. I am pissed about the timing with the money, but that is life for you.

Ill keep everyone posted on the outcome.