Frequently Asked Questions Quality Transmission Service, Tempe, Ariz

39- Why shouldn't I replace my bad transmission with a "used" unit?

While that is an option, you might want to think twice.

If your transmission had been working well until now, there was no reason to think that it was going to have a problem until it occurred.  That's the same thing that an automotive wrecking yard will think when they purchase a wrecked vehicle.  If the transmission was working well, the transmission would be placed in their inventory, and when someone needed a transmission, it would be sold as a serviceable unit.

If your vehicle was sold to a wrecking yard a month prior to the appearance of the current problem, the transmission would develop a problem about a month after it was installed.  Not only will this require additional labor to remove and install a replacement unit, the next unit may not last as well.

That's assuming another unit for your vehicle is available.  These days, transmissions are more specific to a year, make, and model than they were a few years ago.

So, what to do.  The used transmission option is the cheaper assuming that it's a serviceable unit.  But, if you are going to keep the vehicle for the next several years, a rebuilt unit should be more reliable and a better warranty.

The facility that installs the used unit will probably charge you each time a unit is installed.  In other words, if the first unit is no good, expect another installation charge for the next one.  That's assuming the supplier has another unit.  You might ask about the supplier's return policy.

Another reason to consider, is whether the "transmission problem" is actually in the transmission.  With today's computer controlled units, there are numerous electronic sensors, external to the transmission that can be responsible for the current problem.  Also, another reason to have the symptoms diagnosed by a transmission professional.

I've had vehicles towed into our facility, and was told that the owner had replaced the transmission only to still have the same symptoms!

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40- I've called several transmission shops, and I get wide range of prices.

Using the phone to "shop" for transmission work is probably the worse thing you could do!

None of the shops can diagnose your problem without the vehicle, so how do they know what you need.  Anything they quote you is based on pure speculation.  This is not fair to you!

Add to that the fact that you can't see their shop or their personnel.  This can tell you a lot about a shop and how professional it is.

What parts are contained in one quote may be extras another.  Can you tell the difference?  Would you know what parts they are talking about?  Would you know what parts they aren't telling you about, but always include?

When your problem is diagnosed, you can tell if they have taken to necessary time and effort to accurately evaluate your transmission's condition, if you are there.

So, how accurate is a phone quote?  You decide.

Also see FAQ #13, How to find a good repair facility.

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41- My GM transmission doesn't have a dipstick to check the level.

Technical Bulletin #325 4T40-E Fluid Level

Inspecting the fluid level on a 4T40-E is similar to inspecting the fluid level on a manual transmission. It uses a fill plug (oil level control plug) rather than a fill-tube and dip stick. To inspect the fluid level, follow the procedure below.

Caution: Removal of the oil level control plug when the transmission fluid is hot may cause injury if fluid drains from the oil level control plug hole.

• The transaxle temperature should be above 40° C (104° F).
• Raise the vehicle and make certain it is level (do not raise just the front of the vehicle).
• Apply the brakes, move the shifter through all of the ranges (engine running) then return the shifter to the park position.
• Remove the oil level control plug.

If fluid does not drip from the oil level control plug hole, the fluid level is low. Add fluid through the vent cap as necessary.

Fluid level requirements after service:

• Bottom pan removed………..7 liters (7.4 quarts)
• New converter………………2.5 liters (2.6 quarts)
• Complete rebuild……………10 liters (10.6 quarts)

This technical bulletin is furnished courtesy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association.  The technical bulletins are accessible by subscription only.  Click here or the ATRA logo to visit their web site.

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42- My late model Ford overdrive transmission shudders at about 45 mph.

This is a very common problem with some of the late model Ford overdrive transmissions.  The source of the problem lies in the torque converter clutch that chatters as it engages causing a vibration to be felt.

While this would seem to be a major warning sign of failing transmission, this will usually be cured by servicing the transmission (changing the fluid).  At this facility, we will also add an additive called Lubegard (black label) which has helped.

If the symptoms persist, follow the recommendations of you local transmission facility.  The most important thing is not to delay having the service performed.  The longer the unit exhibits the symptom, the more on a chance that damage will occur.

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