Transmission Replacement Options

[Flash619]

I'm trying to decide the best way to go about getting new transmission to put in my 03 ltd cruiser. It has about 150k miles on the engine, and while this car is a bit older I need it to last. My only issue is I don't have a great deal of money, which is why instead of buying a new car I'm trying to keep this one alive as long as I can to get my finances in order.

I originally went into working on my own car because of money...... (looks at massive pile of tools)... I'm sure it pays for itself eventually.

I guess my point is, how should I find confidence in a new part? Say I get a yard to give me a used tranny for like 400, it has 115k miles on it. How do I go about putting this in the engine bay and using the car, without fearing its going to go out in another 30k miles?

I realize its luck of the draw, but I would like as much advice as I can get. Also, where is a good place to find these transmissions? Ebay shows a ton but not always the right year. Some 02, some 05, etc... Is there a certain range in years I can select from? I'm not sure what other years this specific trans was used in.

Last question before I submit.... How should I get the new trans into the engine bay when the engine is tilted backwards from the jack stands? Just wedge a board under it on the trans jack?

Huge thanks in advance! Once this thing is fixed, I can go to repairing my Ford Taurus and its oil leaking

[JoeX]

Last one I put in cost me $250 and yes its a crap shoot to put a used one in. It could last 50 miles or 50,000.
It goes in from the bottom, you will have to remove wheels, brakes, axles, battery, starter, transmission lines, shifter cable, wiring harness to trans, converter bolts and covers,....... to start.

[Flash619]

Originally Posted by JoeX

Last one I put in cost me $250 and yes its a crap shoot to put a used one in. It could last 50 miles or 50,000.
It goes in from the bottom, you will have to remove wheels, brakes, axles, battery, starter, transmission lines, shifter cable, wiring harness to trans, converter bolts and covers,....... to start.

I already have the old one out. Just need to find a decent way to line up the new one.

[JoeX]

I used a transmission jack and and a nylon ratchet strap to hold it on the jack.
A transmission jack will let you tilt or angle the trans to line it up.

[Flash619]

Originally Posted by JoeX

I used a transmission jack and and a nylon ratchet strap to hold it on the jack.
A transmission jack will let you tilt or angle the trans to line it up.

It does, its just an ancient jack missing most of it's supporting arms, etc...