Swapping old '92 tranny for new tranny

[michelleg]

While installing a new (not rebuilt, but actually new) transmission in my '92 4Runner I've run into some questions that I'm hoping someone out there know there answer to (quick!).

Here's what I'm working with: 1992 V6 4x4 (A340H tranny)

I've noticed some differences on the new transmission - the throttle cable is about 2 feet shorter than on the old transmission, and the wiring harness has different connectors on one of the ends - female on old, male on new - and a third connector located on the old transmission is not on the new one at all. (I'm guessing from tracing the wiring on the old one that this third connector is for the speed sensor or the 0xygen sensor, and it just happens to be grouped with the other wires just for location purposes).

Has anyone done this switch from an older tranny (pre-96) to a new one? I'm splicing the female connector from the old tranny to its counterpart on the new tranny - will this work? Also, I've spliced the third "mystery connector" in as well.

My main question is about the throttle cable. Do I need to remove the old throttle cable (actually, I'd have to buy a new one because the little plastic thingie that hold it in place on the transmission itself is cracked)? Why is the new one so short? And more importantly, are there other differences in the new transmission that I need to be aware of? Will any of this effect the electronic controls, like the O/D or ECT, on the new transmission?

Any tips, thought and ideas on this are much appreciated!

[forest_grump]

What kind of transmission are you trying to install or what was it designed to be installed in...if it is new and supposed to replace the A-340H and you are having problems I would strongly suggest contacting where you purchased it and inform them of your diffaculty before you start modifing anything and void your warranty.
Goodluck

[michelleg]

I'm installing an A340H to replace the old transmission of the same model. It just seems that the newer model of this transmission is slightly different than the '92 model. Both are designed to be installed in my specific 4Runner.

[forest_grump]

In that case I would contact place I bought tranny from and ask them for installation problems you arehaving to make sure you do not void warranty before doing any modifications mate...goodluck

[4Wheel]

I have replaced the Transmission/TC in my 92.
The difficulty was finding one that is a drop in repalcement.
These Trannys are completely controled by the Engine ECU.
The ECU needs exact transmission feedback to control motor functions and shifting patterns.
Price that engine wire before you start cutting! it lists at Toyota for $1,700!

[michelleg]

Thanks for the feedback. Turns out there is and there isn't a drop-in replacement. All the trannys (trannies?) are the same for 4 cyl vs. 6 cyl. 4Runners... different torque converters though. I was able to get the correct one with the new tranny anyhow, so it worked out.

For future reference for anyone reading this - here's what I learned from this experience:

1) this thing is REALLY REALLY heavy!
2) the throttle cable on newer transmissions is about two feet too short. Try to salvage the old one off the old tranny, being very careful not to break the plastic bracket that the cable threads through to mount to the tranny. Bad times if it's broken.
3) The Number 2 solenoid connector is different on the new tranny than the '92. Not sure if this is a new vs. old issue, or what, but you can splice the connector from the old one to the wiring of the new one. Splice well and wrap securely. If the splice is bad, the ECU will fail and you will have to shift manually starting in D2, D2 then D. It sucks, and I hear it will ruin the transmission eventually.
4) Did I mention that this thing is REALLY REALLY heavy? Be safe and have people around who can lift heavy stuff. If not using a hydrolic lift, a transmission jack is a MUST. No way to do it without!

[4Wheel]

I agree they ARE very heavy, I bought a bright red platform jack at Costco made some wood support rails cut to the exact angle of the truck and engine so all I had to do was roll it forward.
The shift down cable was easy to install once you have the pan off.
Here's some info to remember I don't know how accurate but the point is the same, after all the work of swapping trannys (trannys just looks better! trannies is too close to panties ya know what I mean) dont let overheating put right back there.

The approximate life expectancy at various temperatures is as follows:

175°F 100,000 miles
195°F 50,000 miles
212°F 25,000 miles
235°F 12,000 miles
255°F 6,250 miles
275°F 3,000 miles
295°F 1,500 miles
315°F 750 miles
335°F 325 miles
355°F 160 miles
375°F 80 miles
390°F 40 miles
415°F Less than 30 minutes

Good luck