1997 Camry engine/transmission replacment advice

[Makincold]

1997 Camry LE 2.4 auto 221,000 miles
My first post here
I have spent an hour or so looking around about transmission replacement which is why I originally came here
Transmission cooler line gave way a few months ago and dumped the fluid at a stop light. Pulled out of traffic by revving engine and replaced burnt fluid and filter but now several hundred miles later transmission is slipping in 1st and maybe second

So, now the question...

I have a quote from a trusted source to replace the transmission with a used one for $750
($300 transmission / $450 labor and fluids, parts ect) But after looking around here, since the engine will more than likely come out to change the tranny, should I put a used engine in at the same time?

221K, Im the second owner, bought at 174K 3 years ago. Engine uses about 1/2 quart of oil between 5K synthetic oil changes, but has recently dropped from 27MPG to 25MPG
Car is in good shape, 4 new tires, new radiator, new CV's, very good interior
Do I stick with a "known" engine with 221K or go with a unknown lower mileage engine?

Thanks!

[Mister_Perkins]

There are two ways to swap the transmission. Either Pull the engine / transmission as one and change it that way, or drop the sub-frame and transmission and support the motor. Not sure how your mechanic is going to do it though.. either way works fine.


If you do want to replace the motor, make sure to get a certified used motor with low miles. Check the odometer in the vehicle before they pull it too if possible. But always keep in mind, when getting a used motor you don't know how much abuse has already been done to it. For all you know it could have the original oil in the motor! (Seen it happen). If you are leaking oil, you can simply fix the leak. To get back to your normal MPG, there are plenty of things that you can do. When was the last time you did a tune up?

[Chris Crash]

I would have your current motor rebuilt instead of gettng a used motor. Yeah, it's a bit more costly, but a rebuilt engine purrs like a kitty.

[Frodo65]

Originally Posted by Makincold

1997 Camry LE 2.4 auto 221,000 miles

...221K, Im the second owner, bought at 174K 3 years ago. Engine uses about 1/2 quart of oil between 5K synthetic oil changes, but has recently dropped from 27MPG to 25MPG
Car is in good shape, 4 new tires, new radiator, new CV's, very good interior
Do I stick with a "known" engine with 221K or go with a unknown lower mileage engine?

Thanks!

How long do you expect to keep the car? Based on your description, the car is in good shape, with no obvious issues with the engine. I would assume the timing belt and associated seals and hardware have been replaced relatively recently, and there are no upcoming major service items. If so, the trans replacement would only indicate a rear seal replacement - and that's 'while you have it apart' kind of item.

Before making a final decision, I'd do a 'full diagnostic' on your current engine - cylinder leak-down, cooling system pressure check, oil pressure check/oiling system system leak-down, close exam of all gaskets, etc. If all checks as good, just swap the tranny, and enjoy. If not, cost out the repairs needed.

Bottom like - if the current engine is in good shape, leave it alone. Replace only if there are issues the replacement can address.

[Makincold]

Thanks for all the replies!
At the moment i think ill have just the tranny done and its time for a timing belt and seal, Ill keep the current "known" engine
Thanks for the replies and advice!