Transmission: rebuild, new, used?

[4racer]

Transmission on my 97 4runner is going out. it has 274k on it. Pretty sure the planetary is going out on it.

I cant seem to find a used transmission with under 150K.

I think new ones are about 2600.00

Havent looked into the cost of a rebuild.

So with that said, which route should I go?

 

[gmcmanus663]

My 98 trans just went out and being a college student, trust me when I say that I need to fix it on a budget. I think a used trans is the best way to go if you can find one with low-ish miles because these aisin transmissions are pretty bulletproof if taken care of. I found one with 162k on it for $200 on craigslist and am having a guy that is local and builds/restores 3rd gens put it in. He's only charging $250 for this install.

So I say keep a keen eye out for a lower mileage trans and swap it in. From what I've read the job isn't too bad if you have to tools, but me being in college away from my tool arsenal back home is what led me to pay someone else to do it.

Good luck with your search, hopefully it works out for you and doesn't hurt the wallet too much either.

 

[johnbyebye]

I went used and haven't looked back. Found one with 130k on it. You'll find a 50/50 split on this forum regarding whether rebuilding is a good idea. I've heard they don't last long but ymmv.