DaveBabble

Hello, everyone.

I have a 2001 LS 430 and the trans has gone far south. It won't shift into drive, and the consensus among my mechanics is that a replacement of the trans is needed.

The car is old, and not worth the cost of a rebuild; some have proposed getting a used transmission from various websites that coordinate the sale and delivery of such "trannies" from around the U.S.

Example: https://allusedparts.com/lexus/ls430...CABEgJaqfD_BwE

I'm curious to know if anyone here has any specific thoughts, experiences, cautionary tales, etc.

Thanks for your input.

LeX2K

Any used transmission is a dice roll have you considered getting a different LS?

DaveBabble

Of course. But before I do that, I'd like to hear from those who've actually tried a used transmission.

LeX2K

I've used them had mostly good luck, a long time ago put one in car wouldn't move in any gear. Even if you get a warranty that is small consolation when the job has to be done again.

DaveBabble

Yes, I thought of that.

On the other hand, another car is no guarantee, either.

LeX2K

True but you can drive it at least. How many miles on your car?

DaveBabble

About 168,000 miles

DaveBabble

Thanks for the input!

I plan to ask about what they "check out" in a transmission like that; any thoughts on specific questions to ask? Since it's likely to be from a boneyard, it likely won't have been driven. But I'm sure there's things that can be checked. The fluid for example, which is supposed to be nice and red and not smell burnt. While it can be changed out, I've found that the burnt smell can return pretty quickly if damaged clutch plates are a problem.

Any other thoughts?