Tranny Replacement Myself ?

[RESTREC]

Is it all too hard to change the transmission on a Caravan 88 for a used one ? Is this the type of job reserved only for a mechanic shop? I am pretty handy repairing almost everything in my car and would like to hear concepts from guys who have attempted and done this. I know it is time consuming and all that but at the end I will not be working on the transmission itself, just changing it. Thanks.

[dominoid8]

Originally Posted by RESTREC

Is it all too hard to change the transmission on a Caravan 88 for a used one ? Is this the type of job reserved only for a mechanic shop? I am pretty handy repairing almost everything in my car and would like to hear concepts from guys who have attempted and done this. I know it is time consuming and all that but at the end I will not be working on the transmission itself, just changing it. Thanks.

Can you tell me where the transmission filter is on my 87 dodge caravan?

[jsinton]

It's not so bad. You have to pull out the axles. If you changed a RWD transmission before, you would find this to be about the same. It would take at least a day. The trans itself is heavy, so don't drop it on your head. Remember to support the engine so you don't ruin your engine mounts. You might need an assistant to get the new trans up there. Or at least some sort of trans lift, etc. I don't recommend getting a trans from a junkyard, as the primary reason these cars get junked is because of transmission failure. You can get a rebuilt trans from ebay for about $600 plus shipping. I have considered this option myself.

[jsinton]

88 Caravan transmissions specify that you can use Dextron II fluid. I don't recommend you use it. I would recommend ATF+3 or ATF +4. A lot of trans problems are caused by people going to the shop and mechanic using Dextron II for fluid change.

[ronmar1]

A transaxle exchange is not an easy job. With average mechanical skills you can accomplish the job, but I wouldn't even consider it with out some sort of transmission jack. It can be done with a floor jack, but it can be very dangerious. If it falls it can crush an arm, hand or worse!

I disagree that you can't use Dexron III in a 3 speed tranny. Dexron III is just fine for a 3 speed but I would not recommend anything but ATF 4 for the 4 speed. You can use ATF 4 in a 3 speed but it isn't necessary in my opinion.

Ron