Transmission Noise .. after warm-up...

[dburland]

I've just purchased a 99 Q45 with 109000 miles and know nothing about its mechanical history. It runs like a dream when it is first started and initially warmed up. Shifts like butter with no noise, however when I get on the freeway for awhile, the transmission develops a slight buzzing noise. The shifts become a bit more harsh and there is a noticable temperature increase on the metal portion of the shift actuator along with a minor high pitched vibration. After stopping and checking the fluid, it is up to level but there seems to be some foam on the dipstick. There is not a trans cooler installed though I know I will need one soon.I need some advice.....I am a bit scared by the stories of failed transmissions as I do not have the 1500 or so dollars to replace it. Should I sell the car before it fails? I really like the car, and would like to keep it. Would installing the cooler and changing the fluid restore my faith or is this buzzing noise the death rattle for these trannies? Please respond...I need to make a decision soon. Thanks all...

[maxnix]

1.) I've just purchased a 99 Q45 with 109000 miles and know nothing about its mechanical history. .....

2.) After stopping and checking the fluid, it is up to level but there seems to be some foam on the dipstick. ......

3.) Would installing the cooler and changing the fluid restore my faith or is this buzzing noise the death rattle for these trannies? ...

1.) The dealer performed service history is yours for the asking (when done nicely). Why one always obtains this first before even inspecting the car.

2.) Are you checking the level correctly? Sounds like it may be low. What does the white paper towel test reveal?

3.) I would do a pan drop and clean, filter screen, gasket and one time use bolt replacement. http://www.bgfindashop.com Snap-On also has a Sun machine that will do the mechanical fluid exchange. Call Joe for the parts. Call Summit Racing for the cooler and install at the same time. Pictures unde my board name in Member's Rides Gallery.

[yodawill2000]

Anybody here have a "Guesstimate" of what a complete transmission flush will cost ?Afraid to call and find out

[maxnix]

Who's supplying the fluids? Somewhere N or S of $100 with you supplying parts and fluids, and if it only has to be done once.

Benefits usually far exceed costs.

[gniknave]

I'm going through the above stated problems right now with my 90 Q....

Anyhow, I'm confused when it comes to doing a transmission flush with a pan drop. Dealers keep telling me it's a bad idea, and 50% of this board says it is. I'm not sure which way to go.

[yodawill2000]

i did alot of googling on this yesterday ..What I learned is its a bad idea to get a flush WITHOUT dropping the pan and getting the old debris out first. If the old crud is in their the new fluid will break it down and circulate it through the transmission. that will cause a failure I would think .

That BGshop link posted earlier is what Im gonna use .. Sounds like its the machine and procedure I will be comfortable with.

[maxnix]

1.) Dealers keep telling me it's a bad idea, and

2.) 50% of this board says it is. I'm not sure which way to go.

1.) To a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. Dealers love to replace parts, not maintain them.

2.) You haven't done nearly enough reading then. No one who has done it will say it is a bad idea, but some who haven't wished they had.

[PopPop]

Anybody here have a "Guesstimate" of what a complete transmission flush will cost ?Afraid to call and find out

There's nothing wrong with a trans flush! AAmco transmission has the power purge flush with Lube Guard additives for around $70.00! If you want synthetic it will be around $100.00 with Lube Guard! Q45 Tech highly recommends! Trans flush is just like going threw Kidney Dialysis everything is recycled but, you get new fluids!

[Jesda]

I paid about $250 for a flush with Mobil 1.

[yodawill2000]

100 to 250 is quite a differance ..

I just want to be sure the pan is dropped and cleaned first ..That shop finder shows Grubbs infiniti is the closest .. would a dealership be the costly route ?