Rep Power: 269

Since my 01 transmission is about to die (input shaft bearing has been rattling for a while) I am looking at getting a replacement tranny from a salvage yard. The guy says he has a 2003 for sale (with very low miles of course). Is there a reference anywhere that defines the tranny code (i.e. can I get the year of the tranny from the SLW-1xxxxxx number)? My 01 is SLW-1051861 so the 03s should probably be in the 12xxxxx range, right?

Is there anything else I should be aware of purchasing a used tranny? Before it goes in, I plan to have the throwout bearing and input shaft bearing replaced and hopefully I'll get another 100k miles out of her.

 
Rep Power: 269

Well anyway, there is a VIN plate on the tranny so the trany code is not relevant.

I ended up buying the tranny from the salvage yard. I was told they had an 03 just to look at the VIN and see it was an 01. They "had 4 or 5" last week and must have sold the 03. Exactly. So what was a $450 tranny is now a $375 tranny with an extended "warranty." Now I just have to figure out what to do to this tranny to make it last and hopefully not grind...

 
Rep Power: 235

I used to live in Knoxville. There's an auto mech at that first light on Clinton Highway off of 640, it's across the street from the ford dealer. That guy is honest and specializes in Hondas. See what he'll quote you for a rebuild.

 
Rep Power: 294

Well... I'm on my third tranny. My only advice to you is to take a look at the synchronizers. Regardless of the miles, I would recommend taking look at them while it is off the car (who knows how the driver treated the tranny, possible inherent defects, etc). Most of your labor cost is tied up in removal and installation. What's an additional hour or two to inspect vs. eating another transmission prematurely while it's on the car. If a kit is needed, now's the time to fix it.

Also pay close attention to any leaks in the first day or two, that's how I lost my second transmission after a clutch and flywheel install,the one time I took it in to a shop.

 
Rep Power: 294

BTW, I think I need to thank you for the P/S Removal DIY. Worked out great!

 
Rep Power: 269

Thanks lazlong, I'll have to check him out.

Yeah, I was thinking synchros just because the 2nd gear grind is too common to be a fluke, and I know I'm not too nice to them myself... Is there a good DIY around here for the tranny removal/replacement? I guess a clutch replacement would be about the same procedure, let me know what you've used. I'm not too keen on tranny work but there always has to be a first.

You're the first I've heard that did the PS removal. Glad you like it! I don't think I could ever go back.

 
Rep Power: 269

Now wondering about the incidentals I should be thinking of. Bearings and synchros, but while I'm at it, new clutch and motor mounts. Should be replacing the timing belt here soon, with water pump, tensioner, valve clearance, and coolant flush. Anything else you guys can think of?

 
Rep Power: 285

Here's a disassembly DIY.
https://www.civicforums.com/forums/3...o-my-05-a.html

I do believe there was a recall issued for 7th gen manual transmissions in reference to gear grind.

 
Rep Power: 235

My throwout bearing and synchros have been going for 2 years now. Drives fine, it just makes a lot of noise when the clutch is engaged and grinds every couple of shifts. I mean, it's not like I'm gonna out-accelerate anybody. lol. But, I degress, I'm not cracking the tranny open until it actually breaks.

 
Rep Power: 269

See, this is why I will always come back to this site. So much great information for those of us willing to try it ourselves! Thanks!