Automatic transmission woes

[rolfh]

1999 4runner with 154,000miles: Experienced milk of magnesia syndrome about 12,000miles ago. What a mess. New radiator and lots of flushing both transmission and engine seemed to fit the bill. I am now noticing loss of drivetrain engagement at low speed, typically when driving up an incline (small residential hill) also sometimes when starting from a stop. Noticed this within the last week. Last night it was accompanied by a very short clattering sound. I suspect this will be a costly transmission replacement. Can someone estimate what a re-built system would cost installed? I've had the Toyota dealer do all maintenance and repair work in the past. I'm guessing they would be at the high end of cost but I also cannot be without the vehicle for an extended time frame. Also, any opinions on is it worth getting fixed? Had the timing belt replaced about 6k miles ago. Starter is relatively new. Oh, yes, and the new radiator (ugh).

Thanks - Rolfh

[kball]

154,000 is relatively low miles for a 3rd gen runner. I would definitely do what it takes to fix it up and get it going again. I would not go to the dealer unless you want to spend more than $3000. Find a low mileage trans at a junk yard and have a local shop install it.

On a side note, sorry to hear about another milkshake. Since you have a new radiator in there you should be good to go for at least 7 years. After that I'd bypass it and put on an external cooler and never worry about the strawberry milkshake again.