Transmission went south

[Lepak91]

Went to dealer to diagnose problem. Turns out I have no 2nd gear and no overdrive. They recommended a rebuilt trans with 3yr/36K warrenty for $3563.75. They could replace the bad parts but with 96K on the trans I figure it would be better to go with the rebuild. Needless to say I'm looking for a good transmission shop that can do it for less. Any suggestions out there?

[AtomicInternet]

Alas, the gear of death claims another. Time for an MTX swap.

[Lepak91]

HaHaHa!!! I got to have that icon of yours. I don't think I'll be going with the manual swap. It's just too much of a P.I.T.A. for me. Maybe I can work something out with some people and get another automatic with some better parts in it. We'll see. For now I'm keeping it at the dealer until I decide what to do.

[sOuLfLy419]

so thats what Mr. PITA stands for.....

[mcon99]

ok, first of all, if your not heart-set on an MTX swap, then don't do it. it wouldn't be worth the time or the hassle.

However, if you let anyone actually replace your transmission for $3500 your on glue.

I just checked www.car-part.com and found quite a few cougar ATX transmissions, 2001/2002, for under $1000.

So here is what you need to do:

1. Buy slightly used transmission for under $1000 from parts dealer
2. Get car from dealership and never let them touch it again
3. Pull entire engine to do transmission swap (pull from the top)
4. While opportunity presents itself, clean entire engine bay and paint engine (pretty it up if you want, wire harness covers, paint valve covers, etc.)
5. Also clean UIM/LIM passages on engine
6. Gut precats if not done
7. Inspect all front steering and suspension components while engine is out, service anything required
8. Get aftermarket transmission cooler kit and install it
8. Reinstall engine and new transmission

Unless your going for gusto, there is no need for any upgraded transmission parts except the cooler which is an absolute requirement, you cannot do with it.

And since your swapping in a 2001/2002 transmission, it is somewhat better than the original '99 you would have just blown.

This is the cheapest and more efficient way for you to proceed from here...

[Lepak91]

I talked with exigent today and am in the process of working things out with him. He has the auto trans that he pulled out of his car. We're thinking about getting a rebuild kit for it maybe even some upgraded parts and doing the job ourselves. I'll keep everyone posted.

[Zalec]

damn dude thats alot of money. I got mine rebuilt for $1700. call Jack Demmer Lincoln Mercury in Dearborn. I highly recomend them for anyone who needs there car to be serviced. they have been nothing but good to me in the mechanical and collision shop. ask for Pete Cottrell. he took care of mine. tell him you know Zac with the black cougar and i refered you. see what he can do for you. there number is (313) 359-7135