At some point I plan to replace my tranny but was curious if anybody has any advice. It looks like I may be able to remove it through the bottom and won't have to remove the engine. When I pulled the replacement tranny the engine was out so I want to be sure. It looks like I can unbolt the front diff, remove the drivers side axle, then just separate it from the engine. If anybody has done it before advice is greatly apprciated. This is an AWD model. Same as FWD except the diff is separate (hopefully easier).

 

Will you be work on it inside or outside? And do you have a lift to raise the van on?

 

Have you ever done a FWD transmission replacement? The AWD adds a lot of work and difficulty. Is the replacement trans AWD also? What is wrong with your trans? This is definitely a job to be done on a hoist. I know I'd never attempt an AWD trans swap without one. I did my stratus trans on a hoist. Can't imagine how hard it would have been without that benefit.

 

Probably outside. I have access to a shop but rather not pull that favor if I don't have to. Same deal with a lift. I'm pretty sure I can safely get it high enough to clear the tranny.

 

I agree most AWDs are more difficult but with my caravan all you have to do is pull the left axle and unbolt from the diff and it leaves the entire drivetrain behind. Basically the tranny bolts to the diff housing and the left front axle passes through the tranny and into the diff.
Yes, the replacement tranny is an AWD.
The old tranny stutters into 2nd gear. Most likely a bad lip seal on the 1-2 piston. I have done plenty of diag and part swapping.

 

There is no 1-2 lip piston. Theres a L/R D-ring piston seal, a 2/4 D-ring piston seal. I've read that a 1-2 shift issue can be caused by a rubber seal on top the valve body and also very common problem is 2/4 accumulator on the valve body. I don' think it's possible or easy to pull the trans with the AWD unit in place. Also I see the passenger side axle shaft goes all the way thru the transfer case into the trans differential. You won't be able to pull the trans back from the engine enough to clear the axle shaft before the trans hits the crossmember.