Transmission Rebuild

[Jergen]

Hi all, newbie here. Want to do some off roading with my 81 4WD so thought I'd get some things on it checked out. Bearings in three gears going in transmission. Looking for shop recommendations in Long Beach CA area for that type of work and suspension, and steering as well. 4WD shop won't touch it, and they have no idea who will. Any idea or suggestions. Truck has 78,000 original miles on it, and is well preserved. Actually, reputable tranny shop in LA will do the work, but a bit pricey. Thanks in advance, Jay

 

[upatree64]

Local fb toyota sales groups are great resources to find whole transmissions cheap and lot's of other parts, not just vehicle's. It's hard for me to wrap my head around "why a Toyota transmission would be going bad w/78k miles on it". Or why a 4x4 shop won't do the work. Those trucks are simple to work on. Just find another shop before you get frustrated over one shop opinion.

 

[tibadoe]

Welcome from VA Jay. Definitely check a few other shops in your area. Like @upatree64 said, switching out with another whole transmission would be the way I would go.

 

[Jergen]

Thanks all, hadn't thought about swapping out trans. for another. Finding one might be difficult, but I will begin the quest. Jay

 

[tibadoe]

Keep us posted Jay.

 

[tbplus10]

If I remember correctly the 4/5 spd trans from 79 to 84 are interchangeable with the 4/5 spd trans from 84 to 88. The automatic in that era will also fit but in the case of the 4 spd auto there is some wiring that has to be fabricated.
If I were doing this job I'd look for a later 5 spd since it has a slightly lower 1st gear ratio and the higher final drive in 5th.
Either way sourcing a trans, or any older Toyota truck part is like hunting for a needle in a haystack.

 

[Jergen]

thanks for the info Joe. I should have mentioned I have a manual, 5 (overdrive). Thanks again. Jay

 

[Jergen]

Keep us posted Jay.

Up

Keep us posted Jay.

Update on trans. Had it rebuilt, mostly bearings, second gear, and resurface for 1800 dollars at a reputable transmission shop in Long Beach CA. Thanks to all for your input. Jay

 

[jazz]

upatree64 makes a good point wondering why transmission is pooched at 78k.
How is mechanical condition on rest of truck. This 22RE I pulled last week and its perfect,,,purrs and has 229k. I unplugged from ECU so all connections at engine are intact. No rattle from timing chain so I suspect that has been replaced at some point. Clutch is worn. Transfer case was removed at some point. Telltale sealant at mating points.