There are many posts already on this topic but I thought I’d post to get some input. I have an 89 Convertible with an automatic transmission that has always been sluggish to get moving when I put in drive and it has now begun leaking fluid pretty badly out of the bell-housing especially when it’s stopped on a decline. It’s also a 4x4 with a leaky transfer case. So, it’s time for a swap of both. I bought a used transmission and transfer case from a 90 that have about 60,000 on them with no signs of leaks. Before I swap them out, I’m thinking it would be wise to refresh the tranny before I install it. I have cleaned it and noticed that both input and output seals have appear to be newer. I’m thinking rather than simply swap them, it would be a good idea to refresh the trans before installing. I’m looking for some input from the group. Should I do any of it myself or take it to a rebuilder before I install it? It’ll be my winter project. I have a lift so I plan to swap it while it is stored on the lift. I have found many threads on overhauling the 42RH, so wondering if I should tackle any of it myself or just do the swap. The truck has 200,000 miles on it. I have no idea on its history. It appears to have been removed at some time in the past as has the engine. I had a good summer with it, now it’s time to prepare for next year.

 

Step 0 - Pick up the factory service manual for your 1989; it'll have rebuild instructions for the 42RH.

Step 1 - Read that carefully. Many times.

Step 2- Evaluate if you can actually do it.

I'd also consider looking at the 46RH/RE videos from Transmission Bench on YouTube ( they have them bundled on a thumb drive, http://transmissionbench.com/46REvideos.html ). Overall methodogy will be the same for either the 42RH or the 46RH. (44RH is basically a 42RH with a different clutch pack arrangement.)

I looked at the videos, decided to let a transmission expert do the one in my Dakota (a 1988 with the 32RH). OTOH, I watched the videos, and will be tackling a 4R70W for my 1991 Cougar (upgrading to a 1994/5 Mustang GT ECU which supports the 4R70W).

YMMV natch.

RwP

 

Thanks for the guidance. I have the FSM and have looked it over. I’ll check out the videos. Any guess at what a rebuild would cost me if I simply dropped it off?

 

Depends on the shop.

I got my 32RH done for $1000, plus installation labor and fluids.

I'd say $1500 to $2500 might not be a bad range; depends on the labor costs where you are.

That's for the transmission only; would be a bit more for the transfer case.

You can order an already-rebuilt unit on line; places like RockAuto will be glad to take your money

RwP

 

I have rebuilt a few, as long as there is no "hard part" damage you can do it for $300 complete with a Reman torque converter and fluid. Trans shops charge a HUGE markup on a basic overhaul. Due to time constraints my son took his 518 in and set it up on a bench at a trans shop and forked over slightly over 3 times that amount, same price that the same trans shop charged me for a Ford 4 speed auto a month before (side job, I have no experience inside of a Ford aod trans). I did the r and r only, on that one.