To rebuild or go used - that is the question......

[corohio1977]

So, after 15 yrs/237.8k (and a radiator & trans cooler replacement), my transmission finally decided to call it quits. I don't necessarily want to get rid of my 4Runner but I’m unsure of what to do. The shop [University Foreign] that I use for the majority of service needed recommended a local outfit [A&J Transmission] that could rebuild the transmission but I’ve also been advised to look into going with a used transmission as well.

I’m on the fence about going used, even though it would be through the dealer [Spartan Toyota], as I simply don’t know about the condition of the unit and I’d be taking a risk that after plunking down roughly 1900.xx something could go wrong – either within the 12mo/12k warranty or outside. I like the idea of going with the dealer as if there should be a problem, I’d assume any Toyota dealer would cover the repair while under warranty.

On the flip side - going with the rebuild, the shop offers a 3yr/unlimited mileage warranty but if I move (which will more than likely happen next fall) I’m unsure of who would cover the warranty should there be an issue.

Unfortunately, the Lansing area isn’t that large where I have an abundance of options/locations to choose from so it’s either the dealer (used trans.) or this local outfit (rebuilt).

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions – what would YOU do (what should I do)?!?!?!?!

 

[theizzardking]

ok, i would defiantly not go with used, to many unknowns and variables,
i would really prefer to go with a factory rebuilt, call the dealership and ask them what those go for, last i checked though it was around 3k.

if that's not in the cards for you i'd go with the rebuilt from J&A ...and upgrade your clutch packs and valve body while your at it or possibly just a trango shift kit, the extra cost of clutch packs and valve body shouldn't be more than $200 over standard cost and can make a pretty noticeable difference in performance and longevity (not that these have issues anyways)

fyi you have a A340F (or possibly A340h) trans if you want to read more about them and such
Toyota A transmission - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

 

[corohio1977]

Thanks for the response and the WIKI info - greatly appreciated!!

Yeah, those are my thoughts on going 'used' as well....... I placed a call to the dealer to inquire on the possibility of either a new or rebuilt unit, so I'll wait to hear from them.

Where is this J & A place located? Are they online?

 

[theizzardking]

Where is this J & A place located? Are they online?

haha ,no that's me being an idiot, i meant your place "A&J"

hold out for the factory rebuilt though if they are still in production, they usually only come with a 3/30 but are done right.

 

[corohio1977]

LOOOOOOL - no worries, I've a had a few of those "slips" today as well.

I'm hoping the dealer will come through with something, or it's the "local" shop by default.

Oh, and I was checking out your thread about upgrading your 4Runner - VERY nice!!!! I'd gladly send mine your way for a "refresh"!!!!

 

[corohio1977]

Ideas/Opinions from ANYONE else out there?!?!?!?!?

 

[shadow247]

Check into a used trans from LKQ Corp. I order from them for our shop here and they offer lifetime warranty on used engines/trans for an additional charge. LKQ - They may not have a location in your area, but they can probably have it delivered to your dealer or other shop.

 

[Alabamaguy]

My TC is going out. My plan is to buy a used trans from a salvage yard or individual with around 100k on the clock. Considering my truck shows 240k but has had 33's on it for who knows how long I think it's time for a low mile unit.

 

[kball]

I would go this route 1996 TOYOTA 4RUNNER Parts - ToyotaPartSales.com

$1500 (if you do the R&R yourself) and you should be good to go for a long time

 

[corohio1977]

FINALLY heard back from the dealer, they can order a Toyota re-man'd unit; which is what I'm thinking I'll probably go with. I'm HELLA hesitant w/going used (even through the dealer) but maybe the extra 1k difference between used/new (installed) will help change my mind...... UGGGGGGH.

 

[spectre6000]

Take it from someone who, until very recently, only drove cars that have been out of production for DECADES. We have for the next few years the LUXURY of factory support for these vehicles. In other words, you can still buy NEW parts from the factory! This is not trivial, and when your 15 years is up there are no new Toyota parts for you from the factory. You're limited to what some parts hound squirreled away somewhere and the ever inflating prices they command. Take advantage of this gift you have while you have it.

I would, in all honesty, do my best to get a BRAND NEW transmission and enjoy the security. If you snoop around online, I think you'll find you can get a new transmission from the factory for about what you say the dealership quoted you in person. I've found that, around here at least, dealership seem to have two prices: the "in-person" price and the internet price. If you find their website where they sell parts at a heavy discount to "keep up with the competition", often times you can talk to the parts guy at that dealership and he'll set it aside for you to pick up. You still have to pay tax, but no shipping and you get the lower price. Finding the website for your nearest dealer might be a bit of a challenge, but they might tell you if you call (and you're a little lucky).

With that in mind, I'm seriously contemplating purchasing an engine/transmission combo as well as a few total rebuild kits in the next two years that I have available to me just to set aside for any future needs. That way when my rig does eventually go down mechanically, I'll have more than a giant paperweight and/or a scrapper bill.

 

[corohio1977]

I totally agree!!!!

The dealer quoted 1939.62 for the factory unit, though I'm thinking (well, hoping) that I can get them to at least match the pricing of another online Toyota dealer/parts site of 1454.72; we shall see.......