[slim slow slider]

I am in need of someone who can rebuild by 5 speed transaxle, commonly known as an A-520.

I am close to Salt Lake, Twin Falls and Boise and would like to find someone who is experienced and can do this on the side from their regular job. Live on a fixed income and need to get this tranny rebuilt, as the 1988 Caravan is my primary transportation.

Can anyone suggest an individual that perhaps you have dealt with?

Much Appreciated

'slim slow slider'

 

[ImperialCrown]

Has it been diagnosed as needing a rebuild? Has a technician driven it and talked to you about it?
This could be difficult 'on the side' as special tools and a shop press are needed. Is it a bearing noise or synchro crunch problem?

 

[chuzz]

This is his third transmission in this van, I think, IC. It's kind of odd that all three have developed pretty much the same problem, don't you think? I've been pondering it and wonder if the engine not being properly centered could be one reason? I'm not much of a mechanic and haven't owned a stick shift in a long time, so don't laugh at my question, okay? I'm just wondering what could be causing all of these transmissions to do pretty much the same thing.

 

[slim slow slider]

Hi: I don't think so. The first developed a 'hole' in the side, leaking oil. The second had been abused. The latest had bad syncros. Cruising along at 70 MPH in 5th and my van ground to a halt. Was able to drive 150 miles home in 4th gear with horrible gas mileage.

I bought these trannies from a pick and pull and a regular boneyard. The cases were not opened to view inside prior to sale. I got a 60 day guarantee with each one and each lasted either 6 months and the last a little over 90 days. A total complete rebuild is in order.

 

[ImperialCrown]

Any need for hard parts like gears or a case could be considered major and put the cost over the top. This can't be determined until disassembly. I would consult with a technician who does manual transmissions/transaxles.

 

[slim slow slider]

I'm certainly willing to do it. There is one fella who is a retired mechanic with 30+ years experience who does have the tools needed.
Just hoping to find someone closer. He lines 275 miles away. I live in a rural area and someone specialized like this is a rarity.

Has it been diagnosed as needing a rebuild? Has a technician driven it and talked to you about it?
This could be difficult 'on the side' as special tools and a shop press are needed. Is it a bearing noise or synchro crunch problem?

Synchro. Bearings probably became damaged. Trans still in vehicle. There was no hint of trouble, except recently, when shifting into 5th, it would grind ever so quietly. Just didn't think anything about it. Then driving at highway speeds (70MPH), it ground to a halt. Could shift into all other gears, but 5th was not useable.

 

[chuzz]

Dang, Mike, you're even more rural than I am, and I didn't think that was possible! You may have to bite the bullet and go get another pick and pull tranny and then when you can afford it, take one to the dude that rebuilds them and have it as a backup. That's about all I can recommend.