DIY Transmission replacement - how hard?
 

I'm starting lose 4th gear (at only 125k miles!), so it's time to do something about it. Has anyone swapped out a 5-speed Getrag themselves? What kind of experience was it for you? Oh, and I'm looking for a used one, preferably in northern California.

Yes I've swaped a Getrag for a Getrag and a Getrag for a ZF. it is pretty easy. It takes about 2-4 hours depending on how fast you work. I swapped clutch disks 3 times too which is about the same as removing the transmission.

You will need the correct tools for the job or you will be sorry you tried to do it yourself...

Yeah, it's really not that bad, especially a manual transmission. JohnBoy is correct on needing the proper tools. You'll need to get the car in the air properly and safely. Female Torx sockets, lots of long socket extensions, transmission jack, etc. I bought a cheap Harbor Freight transmission jack and it's a lifesaver. I've heard of people changing transmission by just bench pressing it into place! No thanks

Make sure you replace everything in there for piece of mind. Full clutch kit, pilot bearing, clutch fork pivot, etc.

bench pressed it into place many times. NOT EASY

With 2 guys working it can be done before lunch. You will also need and a good assortment of ratchet extensions. No need to pull the engine, just tilt it back on the mounts. The top bolt around the bell housing are tough to get, but not impossible. The starter is also a little difficult, but once you do it once you feel your way around it once it will be no problem.

lool

For a beginner, please attempt this on a weekend, so you have time to get it done! Yea, me and some of the other guys can do it in 2 hours, but if you have no idea where the bolts are and how to get them out, it can take alot longer than that. Err... Like days ;)

I recommend a couple 16" Wobble extensions, that way you get the wrench back farthur and can move it better, I have a pair of 16" and 24" extensions with wobble ends, lifesavers on tranny work... MIne are 1/2 drive....

Dave

I also agree on the HF trans jack. It's a lifesaver, and makes the job incredibly painless. I got the HD one, NOT the scissor jack style.
This jack is also great for pulling diffs and subframes~ Definitely worth it.

You can use a trolley jack, but trans jack much better. Lots of 3/8 wobble bars and make sure you have the right torx sockets. The starter pin might get welded in making it a pain to get the trans off. Took me two evenings, I always take johns times and double them, and I would like to think I am not an idiot :E