I had my transmission rebuilt last January (09). I got to work one day and the 4runner wouldnt move into any forward gear. I took it to Mr.Transmission and they charged me an arm and a leg (2,500 or something) to rebuild it. They mentioned that the entire planetary drive needed to be replaced among other things. The transmission is now passed the mileage for the warranty and since I've moved... they are refusing to warranty the failed transmission.

Now, a year later, I have the same EXACT situation but possibly another cause. No forward movement at all, but a day before it stopped working I did get a CEL for Shift Solenoid E. After dropping the pan (the fluid was dark, but no metal pieces on the magnets) and testing the solenoids (2/3 checked out fine) with my battery and compressed air, I found the defective solenoid and have been looking for a replacement.


Here's my dilema

A prepulled transmission is 100.00

A solenoid Kit is 180.00


I'm skeptical that a bad solenoid would render a transmission entirely useless, and I am too broke to shell out 180.00 for a "not fix". When an entire replacement transmission will "definitely fix".

The real issue isn't spending money, its getting back on the road and staying there without any problems in the future.

Keep in mind that the tranny fluid was dark, which tells me the transmission is worse off than just the solenoids... but then again I just don't know.

After a re reading my lengthy post, my best option will probably be to buy the pre pulled transmission and use the solenoids if nothing else. But the transmission is about 4 hours away and I need to borrow someones car where as the solenoids can be shipped here.

I appreciate everyones time and expertise... it's been a while since I posted on Yotatech since I usually can search for my answers. Thanks again.

 

Well that is a sad situation that a rebuilt tranny only lasted a year. I think I'd be tempted to just replace the whole thing now with a factory built unit because it sounds like the rebuilders didn't do a good job. (used from salvage yard would fit that description of a factory built unit unless, like you, the PO used Mr tranny guys to rebuild it too). Good luck with it, those are normally very reliable trannys.

 

You're just the person I needed to hear that from.

So the plan is:

Drop my transmission
Buy replacement
Replace Seals
Refill with Synthetic ATF

I have the manual downloaded with Pictures and step by step instructions. This is going to be my first time dropping a transmission, any tips would be appreciated from the forum. Thanks again for the quick reply, I needed the peace of mind knowing that replacing the tranny was the better option.

 

Sounds like a good plan, refer to this thread for some tips: https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f2/r...y-tips-199248/

BTW were you doing anything that is extra hard on the tranny? Like towing a trailer or something? If so, add an extra ATF cooler into your plans too.

 

get or rent a proper transmission jack, whatever the cost, very helpful item to have