Transmission and Other Issues

[TAG]

Just got some bad news from the mechanic. Hoping to get some advice from other TC owners.

 

2012 Transit Connect 145k miles with a camper setup in the back. 

 

A while back I noticed a bit of a droning sound when under moderate and heavier acceleration. I had a mechanic check it out and they said they couldn't hear it. Since then I drove it down Baja and back as well as daily driver with zero issues. 

But, the anxiety of a desert breakdown persisted and I went to a place that specializes in transmissions. Also, the sound may be getting more obvious?

 

So, their diagnosis:

- Radiator needs replacing

- Transmission needs to be rebuilt (they think possible transmission bearing noise)

- Secondary cat needs replacing (something is broken off inside and shifting around making noise)

- Front wheel bearings need replacing. 

 

The quoted cost to complete all of this will come close to what I paid for the van. 

Note that the van has never had issues with shifting or hard shifts. 

 

So, my main questions would be regarding the transmission. Anyone had similar trans issues? Is a $3k+ rebuild the right answer? What about buying a rebuilt trans and replacing myself? Other advice?

 

thank you

[G B L]

Do the wheel bearing first and the Cat and then take it for a drive, drain and fill the trans take a good look at the fluid and see if there are fillings or debris in the fluid.  The wheel bearing noise and vibration are in the way of the trans diagnosis.

Is the rest of the van in good shape , if so finding a replacement could be a real task.

 

[TAG]

On 6/6/2022 at 5:00 AM, G B L said:

Do the wheel bearing first and the Cat and then take it for a drive, drain and fill the trans take a good look at the fluid and see if there are fillings or debris in the fluid.  The wheel bearing noise and vibration are in the way of the trans diagnosis.

Is the rest of the van in good shape , if so finding a replacement could be a real task.

 

Good call