emoto

Been prowling for quite some time and have utilized the knowledge here for OME lift, tire sizes, timing belt change, etc.. I'm hoping someone may be able to help me get more life out of my transmission.

I have a 2000 limited 4runner with 125k on it, 4x4 automatic, bought with 99k two yrs ago. Did a screen change on the tranny after I bought her and haven't had any problems with the transmission. Initial screen looked fine, no metal in the pan at that time. Fluid looked fine, and it stays full.

A couple weeks ago the tranny started to whine, matching rpms, in 1st, 2nd, 3rd. Not sure if it happens in higher gears, just hard to hear. Shifts perfect It sounds like a supercharger or something. A low pitched whrrrrr. The whine quiets a bit after warm, but doesn't go away. Only happens when in gear. Took it to a "reputable" tranny shop a couple days ago and they said, "hmm, shifts fine, maybe the noise won't get any louder"...Also the driver said it doesn't sound like the planetary gear, maybe the pump.

Today, I pulled the pan again. Fluid looked fine. There were silver flecks in the pan easily visible in the sun. The screen looked clean. The flecks didn't stick to the little magnets, so I assume it's aluminum shavings. Around six quarts of fluid replaced and the noise is unchanged.

After looking around for options, seems like I have two. Find a used tranny and put it in, or drive until it doesn't drive anymore and then do option one. Seems like I should be able to prevent further damage to a fine running tranny with the right replacement parts, but that doesn't seem like a solution that is common. Most thanks to you all!

maachine

check the differential. that could be where the noise is coming from, especially if its changing sound whith shifting. probably a good time to change the gear oil anyway. look for metal shavings in the oil when you drain it.

emoto

It's suddenly apparent where the holes in my description are. No whrrrr in park or neutral whrrrr in reverse or drive. I don't need to be moving for the whrrrr..

maachine

Ahh got ya. Doesnt sound good for your trans then

aztoyman

Is there any chance the trans is over full? It could cause it to aerate and make that whine.

Seeing silver flecks doesn't sound good if you didn't see them the last time you checked.

Maybe get another opinion from another trans shop or the dealer if you trust them in your area.

emoto

Thanks, no overfilling before, and I was careful on refill also. Pretty sure the whining is getting louder... I was shot down by my accountant (s.o.) when I went to get parts to avoid strawberry milkshake, so I do check the fluid quite often.