New member with a transmission question...

[gilmarlin]

I have a 2001 4 Runner 4WD and recently it has developed a low grinding noise in high gear with the O/D on. If I turn off O/D the sound goes away, the dealer says it's an internal clutch or "SPRAG" problem and a local re builder says it's a torque converter problem that is common to this model. Anyway, I wanted an opinion on the pros and cons of repairing vs putting a rebuilt tranny in. Estimates vary from $3300-$4000 for the whole job installed with a 2 year warranty from the shops I've spoken with. I have 160,000 miles on the car and it is in perfect condition otherwise. I sure would appreciate some feed back from the experts here as I have to make a decision soon, repair, replace or time to get a new 4 Runner... Thanks Gil

 

[Qyota]

I think both are probably wrong...and that price range is astronomical. I hope you are able to find better help than that.

I agree that it's probably the torque converter. However, there are no common problems with TC's on these trucks. To replace the TC should be in the $500-600 range.

When the shift sprag wears and needs to be replaced, it has trouble shifting, and it's usually in the low gears (1, 2), and has no effect at lock-up. And even if that was the problem, buying a used transmission and having it installed would be less than $1500 total.