Need torque converter specs because I just replaced the transmission.

ANSWER : I’m not sure what you mean by torque converter specs. Torque converter end-play can be checked with a special tool and a dial indicator. This is done to determine the lateral movement of the turbine and stator. The repair information I have does not list this specification. If you have any doubts about the converter, I recommend replacing it. More often than not, the converter suffers contamination as a result of internal transmission failures and should be replaced anyhow.

ANSWER : When the starter was diagnosed as bad the flywheel teeth the starter mate to when trying to turn over the engine may have broken or worn teeth and cannot engage each other anymore. Why the torque converter would need replaced I would need to know if the transmission has a shifting problem? I do not see why it would need to be replaced to get the vehicle to crank over. If you do not trust your mechanic word on the needed repairs then have a second opinion check from another mechanic like one from YourMechanic.

ANSWER : Hi there:

If the mechanic completed the O2 sensor replacement, reset the codes and the error code was triggered again, it is possible that the catalytic converter is damaged and needs to be replaced. However, it’s also very common for the electrical harnesses that power these sensors to become frayed, damaged or faulty; which can also trigger the check engine light. It’s not advisable to drive a vehicle with a damaged catalytic converter for extended periods of time, as it can cause damage to internal engine components.

ANSWER : Replacing the system drier is absolutely essential. If the system has been open to the atmosphere (due to the leak in the condenser), the desiccant in the drier has been fully saturated with moisture. As far as the expansion valve, replacement is not normally implicated in a leak repair, in your case a leak in the condenser. To justify replacing the expansion valve, there would have to have been a diagnostic performed which proved a fault. If no diagnostic was performed, and there is no evidence of a fault, then it is pointless to replace the valve. But, again, drier replacement is absolutely essential. To add the drier to your order, you can simply add a note to the mechanic in your order and/or add it as a service (you will see a link that you can click on to "add services" or write in specific services). If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hi there. As long as the engines in the two Toyota’s are identical in size and configuration, the compatibility of the two transmissions should work, however there are some risks with swapping out a transmission on an older vehicle like your 88 Corolla. The correct way to complete this service is also installing new drive axles and supporting hardware within the driveline. However, the head gasket repair is often a trap, as the reason most head gaskets fail is due to an overheating issue, which typically damaged the cylinder head itself, internal components like pistons, connecting rods and more. If finding a newer car is not in the cards as the moment, the best investment would be the transmission swap.

ANSWER : The parts required to change out a catalytic convertor will really depend on what type of converter is going to be used. There are factory type replacements that will use a flange and just get bolted into place, that will require a new flange gasket and pipe clamp. Or there are aftermarket replacements that will require the pipe to be cut, and either welded, or clamped into place. Other than that, I would suggest that this is the perfect time to replace the oxygen sensor. Keep in mind, when removing the flange from the back of the engine, it is fairly common for the bolts and/or studs to break, due to all of the heat cycles that are associated with the exhaust/converter. As far as the rough starting issue, I would check the timing chain and tensioners. It sounds like there may be a possible issue with chain tensioner, and this can cause all kinds of problems, especially throwing off the timing and causing rough starting and running issues. If any of this sounds like something you could use a hand in diagnosing and/or repairing, contact a certified mechanic, like the mobile mechanics at YourMechanic.com.

ANSWER : Hi There,
This is a known issue in this generation Ford Focus and some Fiestas with the "Power Shift" transmission and there have been numerous recalls and lawsuits. Although, it is would be difficult to determine how much longer your transmission will last given the fact that you have many new parts, I would not recommend junking the car as it may still provide some valuable life left for you. I would recommend taking it to the dealer to see if these parts may be covered under the recall.

ANSWER : Most vehicles have an internal transmission filter that can be changed by removing the transmission pan. Some diesel trucks will have an external filter that can be changed just like an oil filter. The transmission filter is usually recommended to be replaced either when the transmission fluid is replaced or around 100,000 miles depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation.

As for which fluid to use, I would recommend looking in you owners manual. Your owners manual will list all fluid specifications that are required for your vehicle including capacity and type. I would always recommend using what the manufacturer recommends for the vehicle.

If you’d like to have your transmission fluid and filter serviced, consider YourMechanic, as one of our mobile technicians can come to your home or office to do so.