So Fix it

According to Jacques Richot of Mister Transmission in Winnipeg, "Most new transmissions are actually rebuilds. Only a few manufacturers sell [transmissions] fully new." Before buying a new transmission, familiarize yourself with the different types.

New Transmissions

Only a handful of companies make new transmissions as replacement parts. In most cases, new transmissions only come with a new car. If a garage offers you a "new" transmission, ask whether it is actually new or a factory-rebuilt transmission.

Used Transmissions

A used transmission is just what it sounds like: a transmission removed from another car. If you buy a used transmission, ask about its condition and whether it has undergone a maintenance check. Also ask about any guarantees that may come with it.

Rebuilt Transmission

Transmission rebuilds usually occur at a garage and may involve the rebuilding of your current transmission. In a rebuild, the mechanic takes apart and cleans your transmission, repairing or replacing any damaged parts.

Remanufactured

Remanufactured transmissions are the same as factory-rebuilt transmissions. The process remains essentially the same as with a rebuilt transmission except a remanufacture occurs in a factory setting. The cars original manufacturer usually performs this job, which usually comes with a guarantee or warranty from the company.

Tip

According to Cottman Transmissions in Des Moines, Iowa, you may save money by pricing the transmission and installation separately. Obtain one quote for the transmission itself and another quote for the cost of installing the transmission. You may be able to buy the transmission elsewhere at a lower price and then pay to have it installed.

A newly rebuilt engine is often an extensive, time consuming project. To make sure your vehicle operates to its maximum capacity, you cannot fail to treat the new engine with care. Making sure all connections are secure and functioning is crucial in the early health of the rebuilt motor. Failing to treat the engine with proper care during the first few months of use will cause damage and may lead to yet another engine to be installed quicker than you might think.

Instructions

1

Inspect the engine compartment one final time before starting the vehicle. You should look for loose hose connections as well as loose electrical connections. Search for any tools or bolts left under the hood as well. Check all fluid levels once more to ensure the newly rebuilt motor does not become damaged upon its first use.

2

Ask your assistant to ignite the engine and hold down the accelerator so it is between 1,200 to 1,500 rounds per minute (rpm) for the first 20 minutes. Watch for possible leaks around the motor and under the car. Look for any other potential problems around the engine and any of its adjoining systems as well. This includes the engine oil pan and coolant and fuel hoses.

3

Check the motor belts to ensure they are both tight and fully operational. The belts should be snug and not loose from their wheels. Allow the engine to run for three minutes if their is unnatural noise coming from it in order to let oil reach and circulate throughout the engine. Have your assistant watch the oil pressure gauge. If the noise persists, shut the engine down and ensure the oil pump is functioning correctly.

4

Allow the engine to run at regular idle speed following the first 20 minutes of testing. After the oil has circulated and noises have ended, set the engine timing if possible. Do this by shutting down the engine and loosening the distributor enough to rotate it manually. Connect a timing light tool as directed by the manufacturers instructions. Follow the steps on the tune-up label found in the engine section of the vehicles service manual to set the timing.

5

Test the vehicle on a road that is free from heavy traffic. Adjust your speed up to 40 miles per hour (mph) and release the accelerator. Allow the vehicle to coast down to around 15 mph and then again accelerate to 40 mph. Repeat this multiple times to assist the new piston rings in sealing properly. Check the engine for leaks or disconnections again after the vehicle is stopped.

When dealing with a failed engine, it is not always possible for a person to purchase a brand new replacement. Buying a rebuilt engine is often a cheaper option.

Buick

Rebuilt engines can vary depending on the year of a vehicle. For example, a rebuilt engine for a 1996 Buick Roadmaster can be purchased for around $1700, while a rebuilt engine for a 1993 Roadmaster can be bought for around $300 less.

Chevrolet

Some rebuilt engine prices decrease drastically from newer to older models. For example, a rebuilt engine for a 2004 Chevrolet Impala can cost nearly $1800. A rebuilt engine for a 1964 version of this same vehicle can be purchased for a little over $1000.

Ford

In some cases, differences in the year of a vehicle will have little to no effect on the cost of a rebuilt engine. For example, a rebuilt engine for a 1995 Ford Mustang can be purchased for around $1400. Although a 1980 Ford Mustang is a much older version, the cost to buy a rebuilt engine for it is around the same price.