'93 A4LD problems...

[sholzy]

200k on my '93 4.0 A4LD. Rebuild is in order, but what needs to be replaced and what (special) tools are required?

Also, I will probably get a junkyard tranny to use while I'm rebuilding mine. Since there have been several revisions to the A4LD, what years can I bolt up to my 4.0 without problems (issues with my computer).

Symptoms:
* way over-due fluid/filter change

Under 15 miles of continuous driving:
* no problem shifting through all gears
* in OD: when kicking down to pass, tranny acts as though manual clutch is engaged until I let up on gas then it will down shift
* very little slippage noticed in 1-3 gears

Over 15 miles of continuous driving:
* shudders going into OD
* thunking sound (like someone hitting a tire with a hammer)
* slippage is greater, takes more RPMs to start movement in 1st and Reverse

What am I looking at to replace?

I haven't pulled the pan so I don't know what kind of debris is laying in it.

 

[adsm08]

Have you ever been through an auto trans before?

 

[sholzy]

This would be a first.

 

[adsm08]

Then I recommend against doing it yourself. Unless you are doing it in a class or with supervision/help from someone with experience.

Rebuilding an automatic transmission isn't like changing your oil or rotating tires. There are a lot of specific clearances and orders and such.

 

[sholzy]

I don't have any doubts about my ability to rebuild it.

 

[adsm08]

Well if you are dead set on doing it yourself, get every thing, converter, clutches, steels, valve body, all of it.

 

[pcollins]

If you plan on doing it yourself, get a VERY descriptive manual.

 

[SMTGREG]

To perform a complete rebuild the parts will cost between 750 to 900 dollars depending how many hard parts need to be replaced. Some bushings will need to be pressed in with the correct dies. You will need several special gauges and tools to set the proper clearance. Power flushing the cooler and lines with heated fluid is highly recommended. Some people just perform a soft rebuild which includes clutches bands and seals. I would recommend replacing the EPC solenoid in the valve body and the torque converter also. In the long run just install the used trans and hope for the best.