Expert: Mike Evans - 10/20/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi there,
I have a 1998 S10 Blazer (4.3L - 4x4 - automatic). Reverse is out of this vehicle (forward gears work "most" of the time. I was wondering if you could tell me what years/makes/models I may be able to look for/interchange when trying to find a used transmission (or is it better to rebuild the existing one. I appreciate and and all help I can get!

Rod

ANSWER:      They used this transmission from '97-'02 in the Blazer and S-10.  Before you spend a lot of money, have you changed the filter?  Changing the filter and fluid may free up the sticking valves that are not working in your transmission.  I'd certainly try this before I spent a ton of money on a replacement.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you. I have not tried that yet. I was told (I just purchased the vehicle) that the owner was told that the reverse gear in these was cast aluminum?? When the vehicle is running, and in park, you can hear a definite "grinding" in the transmission... Sort of sounds like a marble rolling around. I am probably not explaining it very well.

Answer
    Well I hope you got a good price.  Practically everything inside the transmission is cast aluminum except for the gears themselves and the baskets, drums, and bands.  From the noise you are describing I would say that the transmission is in dire need of replacement.  A used transmission is not a bad deal, but get a remanufactured torque converter to go with it.  There are too many hidey-holes in an old converter for debris and other problem-causers.  If you shop for a rebuilt transmission at a transmission shop keep in mind that the price they are quoting you is usually around three times what it cost them to rebuild the unit.  If they won't haggle on price just walk out and go somewhere else.  Eventually you will find someone who will give you a good deal.