Torque converted...

Hey to all,
I am new to this forum. I just got my first T4R. But in dire need of some loving. I will add some photos to show my pain. My theory is the torque converter internally fell apart. Pieces went in and locked up the transmission. Then shredded the flexplate off. Question, would this destroy the thrust bearing and/or anyone else have this happen? The design of the flex-plate looks like it was meant to give before it would effect the engine. Note too that the crank has been machined by the pilot on the torque converter.

 

I plan on tearing into the transmission this week or weekend. I will add to the post as I progress.

 

Subscribe...interested in what happened

 

260k, then the aftermath. I have $50 total in the truck (a tow bill). How it happened, that's what I'm investigating. I'm most likely swapping transmissions.

 

For the price, I couldn't say no.

 

Wait...someone gave you this 4Runner?? Damn dude!! I don't feel bad for you now...lol!! 260K...that's a lot of miles...but definitely not unheard of. Please keep us informed...pictures if possible. And if you don't mind...can you let me know what it cost to rebuild your trans? Just for my personal info...

Thanks...

- Russel

 

I found a used transmission for $270, flex plate out of a 2002 Tacoma $35, transmission filter/ gasket $18. And maybe $25 in dextron II fluid. Oh also replaced the rear main seal $15. I got the new transmission and transfer case in the r4t. Just a pain on the ground with limited tools. Hoping to be driving it later this week.

 

Great job at finding parts on the cheap! Hate working on car's while laying on my back!! Spent many many days doing that...looking for that perfect piece on cardboard..lol!!

Glad to hear your almost up and running!! Get it on the road before the snow starts to fly!!

- Russel

 

Awesome!! I'm excited for you Buddy!!

 

Yes sir, evidently you are suppose to drive it 10 miles a month in 4wd to keep the front lubricated.

 

Nice! My Trans feels like its about to go anyday, 200k on it. Either going to have it rebuilt or find a used replacment.

 

Oops...I didn't know this!! There some months I don't even lock into 4wd....little lone drive 10 miles. I'll have to start working on this.

 

Need to use that locker every once in a while too if you got em!

 

Unfortunately, my 4Runner didn't come with a rear E-locker; however, that's about to change!! Last year I ran across a good deal...a guy was parting out his 1999 4Runner, which had an e-locker!!! Yes!! So, I bought the complete rear axle...too include everything needed to install the e-locker into my T4R as if it came from the factory!! Remembering the e-locker's came with 4.30 ratio and mine has 4.10 ratio...l made a combo deal that included the front clamshell also. At the time, I was going to just install them as is, but I wanted to rebuild the rear axle first. While waiting for parts to come in...I really got to thinking about how sweet it would be to have 4.88's!?!? So, I shelved everything until I could save up enough money to re-gear and finish the rebuild. I'm Really hoping that before the end of the year I'll be able to send everything out to ECGS and have them work their magic.

You're quite lucky to have your e-locker come stock. Why wouldn't the original owner spring for another $2-$300 to get them factory? Just don't understand...

- Russel

 

So far the T4R is shifting better the more I drive it. I was curious if anyone has change the transmission filter before. I don't see a maintenance for it in the manual. Also I decided to give the runner to my dad for his birthday. He needs a hunting buggy. But I called dibs on it. So I'm surprising him this weekend. I want to keep it but I have three other vehicles. Most of my friends are mad because it would be a 4k payday. But my method seems more rewarding.

 

I'm Almost positive the transmission doesn't have any type of filter. IIRC, it might have a screen that's suppose to block out the big stuff...but that's it!!

Sir I have to applaud you. These days people seem to only care about one thing...the all might "Dollar"! It's really awesome to see you take care of your Dad...making him happy...instead of making a quick buck. Also...this is coming from a guy who bought his T4R specifically for hunting...your Dad will absolutely love it!! There is what seems like endless easy/cheap modifications you can make to your 4Runner...to make it even better and more personalized!!

Your a good Son @forerunit...tell your Dad Happy Birthday from the 4Runner community!!

Cheers...
Russel

 

So I gave the T4R back to me Pops Sept. 27 for his birthday. He couldn't believe it was running. My stepmom told him I probably parted it out. So it was an emotionally good day. I think our conversation started with him turning the key and going for a cruise. I found out too the day before he told my stepmom that it would be a miracle to get the T4R back. I still have the truck because I'm putting some miles on it, to give it a good ole shake down. I hit 500miles on the swap and 280k on motor running smooth. Although I did pull a code for bank 1 sensor and a slight humming sound that fluctuates to wheel speed not rpm. I think it is the front left wheel bearing. But I have some investigating to do. Thank you guys for your support! And like a good teacher once told me, keep a diggin!

 

This is one of the best stories I've heard in a long time. Congratulations on getting your 4Runner back on the road for your Dad...your a great Son...and a good Man!! I wish you the best of luck on your shake down. Hopefully this wheel bearing will be the last problem you discover...so you can quickly get your Dad's 4Runner back to him so he can begin enjoying it!!

Once again congrats....

- Russel

 

The T4R is still cruising! (1500 miles later). My pops in enjoying the heck out of it.

 

This is awesome news!! Boy just shows how hard it is to kill one of these T4R!! Glad your Dad is having a great time!!