Well -- I knew it was comming. The front bushing in the transmission is leaking. Since I am at 120k, I am thinking of just getting it rebuit.

How long does the A999/32RH last usually? I can get the leak fixed for $200.
I got quoted from several places a soft rebuild for $900 - does that sound about right?

Thanks all...

 

A soft rebuild is a waste of money because the clutches don't get changed, only some gaskets and seals. To me it sounds like you're about to pay $1500-$2000 (full and proper rebuild price) for a $10 leaking front seal.

 

The few techs I have spoken with do the clutches in each pack. I going to the shop tomorrow and watch the pan get taken off - if there is brass or sludge, you know it needs it. Also the 900 includes a new torque converter.

The techs also said pretty much all the same thing. When the front bushing starts to leak, it can be small pieces of the torque converter that have shaved off lodge themselves in the front pump - hence scoring the bushing causing the leak. Our torque convertors aren't known for being stellar Also if our transmissions get low on fluid, I was told by a few techs that the thrid gear planet doesn't get lubricated, so a leaking transmission can cause premature wear of #3. When this happens - you need the full 1400 rebuild. The leak just started, so as long as the planets are good, clutches, bands and seals is all it will need.

Ill see whats going on tomorrow. I dont feel like dropping a trans That is pretty hard to do in the driveway, but I have one guy that said he will fix the bushing for 200. But it is one of those situations - pay now or pay later. You know a 5000+lbs van transmission with 120k is probably at 70% of its life...

 

Well...went do to the shop. As anyone would, I was hoping for the $10 fix. Wrong! I got to see the pan off - yes there was about 1/2 cup of friction material and some small metal flakes. So I had the shop go ahead and tear it down. Glad I took it when I did. The Front Pump started to fail. If I went a little longer I would be buying all the parts inside. The planetaries were OK. I did have to get a new front pump which upped the price $200.
So for $1200 Im getting a pretty nice rebuild with all the updates to the 32RH that have come out in the past years. Also I am getting a new torque converter. Strangely, the shop stated that my TC may have not been unlocking at times, causing that strange stumble I have been having. Also I have been chasing a vibration at 60+, probably the TC also.
Ill get it back Thrusday and check in then...

 

Got the van back! There were a few problems with that tranny that I wouldn't have said was it...
First I had the vibration at 60-70. Most of that is gone. I used to get a clink/clunk going from D to R - that is gone now to. The tranny now downshifts quicker and in general it much smoother than before.

It really was on its way out...Happy Motoring!