How to Replace a Transmission Shaft

The transmission shaft is a vital element in the smooth operation of your vehicle. It is also known as the input shaft. The shaft is a vital link between the engine and wheels. It facilitates efficient transfer of power from the engine to the wheels. The shaft rotates as it transmits power. When you begin to experience jams as you change gears, it usually indicates transmission problems. This may necessitate replacement of the shaft. Transmission repair is one of the more costly vehicle maintenance jobs. Follow the steps outlined below to replace your input shaft if your vehicle has an automatic transmission.

Step 1 – Preparation

Park your vehicle in a suitable site on solid, level ground. It helps if you wear overalls due to the expected dirt and grease as you engage with your vehicle.

Step 2 – Lift the Vehicle

Raise the car off the ground with the help of a floor jack. Position jack stands underneath the car, both at the front and rear. This will allow you clear access to the transmission.

Step 3 – Cables, Drive Shaft and Gear Assembly

Use your wrench set to loosen the cables attached to the transmission. You’ll also need to detach fluid cables connected to the radiator. If your car has vacuum hoses attached to the transmission, remove these as well. Detach the drive shaft from the transmission. Place a rag at the transmission to keep fluid in. Detach the gear assembly. Position the transmission jack below the transmission pan.

Step 4 – Remove Transmission Shaft

Lift the transmission and remove the lower bell housing cover. Use your wrench set to remove the housing bolts, torque converter bolts, rear transmission mounts and cross member bolts. Place the bolts in a safe, accessible place for easy retrieval later. Lift the transmission jack and remove the cross member. Lower the transmission jack as you shift it towards the rear of the vehicle. Remove the faulty transmission from the jack.

Step 5 – Place New Transmission

Attach the new transmission onto the jack and raise it to the position occupied by the faulty transmission. Attach the torque converter to the transmission as you turn it. A click indicates a secure attachment. Retrieve the bolts earlier removed. Secure the cross member and rear transmission mount onto the transmission. Attach the cross member, bell housing and torque converter bolts.

Step 6 – Gear Assembly and Drive Shaft

Secure the gear assembly onto the transmission followed by the drive shaft.

Step 7 – Attach Cables

Connect all the cables to the transmission as well as to the radiator that you detached earlier. Attach the vacuum hoses to the transmission if you’d removed them.

Step 8 – Remove Transmission Jack

Disengage the transmission jack from the transmission. Take away the jack stands at both ends of the car. Lower the car to the ground and finally remove the floor jack. Test your car. It should be able to operate smoothly with the new input shaft.