Car Transmission from Junk Yard: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
A transmission is a vital component of a car’s drivetrain, responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. When your car’s transmission fails, it can be an expensive repair to replace it with a new one. However, you may be able to save money by purchasing a used transmission from a junk yard.
Benefits of Buying a Transmission from a Junk Yard
There are several advantages to buying a transmission from a junk yard:
– Cost-effective: Junk yard transmissions are typically much cheaper than new transmissions, making them a more affordable option for repairing your car.
– Variety: Junk yards often have a wide selection of transmissions from different makes and models of cars, giving you a better chance of finding the exact transmission you need.
– Compatibility: Junk yard transmissions are typically compatible with your car’s engine and drivetrain, making them an easy replacement for your faulty transmission.
How to Find a Junk Yard Transmission
Finding a junk yard that sells transmissions can be done in a few ways:
– Online: Use search engines like Google or Yahoo to find junk yards in your area that specialize in auto parts.
– Directories: Check online directories like JunkYardDog or Car-Part.com for a list of junk yards in your area.
– Local listings: Look in local newspapers or online classifieds for listings of junk yards that sell car parts.
Tips for Buying a Junk Yard Transmission
When buying a transmission from a junk yard, follow these tips:
– Research: Before you go to a junk yard, do some research to determine the exact transmission that you need for your car. This includes knowing the make, model, and year of your car, as well as the engine size and type of drivetrain.
– Inspect the transmission: Once you find a transmission that you think will work, inspect it carefully for any signs of damage. Look for cracks, leaks, or missing parts.
– Test drive: If possible, test drive the car with the new transmission installed to ensure that it is functioning properly.
– Get a warranty: Ask the junk yard if they offer any kind of warranty on the transmission. This will give you peace of mind in case the transmission fails after you install it.
Installation
Installing a transmission is a complex task that should be performed by a qualified mechanic. However, if you are comfortable working on cars, you may be able to install the transmission yourself. Follow these steps:
1. Gather the necessary tools: You will need a jack, jack stands, wrenches, sockets, and a transmission jack.
2. Prepare the car: Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. Disconnect the battery: This will prevent any electrical short circuits while you are working on the transmission.
4. Remove the driveline: The driveline connects the transmission to the rear wheels. Remove the bolts that hold the driveline to the transmission and pull the driveline out of the transmission.
5. Support the transmission: Use the transmission jack to support the transmission.
6. Unbolt the transmission: Remove the bolts that hold the transmission to the engine and bell housing.
7. Remove the transmission: Carefully pull the transmission away from the engine and lower it to the ground.
8. Install the new transmission: Lift the new transmission into place and align it with the engine. Bolt the transmission to the engine and bell housing.
9. Reinstall the driveline: Connect the driveline to the transmission and tighten the bolts.
10. Reconnect the battery: Reconnect the positive and negative battery terminals.
11. Test drive the car: Take the car for a test drive to ensure that the transmission is functioning properly.
Conclusion
Buying a transmission from a junk yard can be a cost-effective way to repair your car. By following the tips in this guide, you can find a quality transmission that will fit your car and get you back on the road quickly.
